Which Ants Have Babies?
WouterDespite the fact that ants are considered a pest, they also have a place in our lives. These social insects are important predators of many pests and may also benefit our health. They also have a large influence on ecosystems worldwide.
In addition to being predators, ants are also important biological control agents. They help clean up the soil and disperse seeds. They are also important for pollinating plants.
Most ants are worker ants. These females gather food, gather eggs, and tend to the queen. Some workers also defend the nest.
Queens, though, are special. They are the only ants that can lay eggs. They are larger than workers, and they have wings. However, the queen can only mate with male ants.
Ants have three distinct body sections: the head, abdomen, and thorax. They have two sets of jaws and antennae for communication. They also use their mouths for fighting.
In addition, some species of ants spin cocoons for protection. Some species scavenge dead meat and honeydew produced by insects. Ants also use their jaws to carry food. They are also known for their stings.
During the first year of their lives, most ants are workers. Some species of ants also feed their young. During this time, young ants may become drones, or they may become princesses.
A queen can lay millions of eggs during her lifetime. The colony population grows quickly. A queen can live for decades if the colony has the right conditions.
