Why Do Ants Raise Their Abdominal?
WouterAmong the many ant species in the United States, the Acrobat Ant has the unique ability to raise its abdomen into the air. This unusual posture helps them defend themselves when they are threatened. However, the Acrobat Ant is a relatively harmless species. They are commonly found in homes and businesses, and they are not a significant nuisance. They are also known to feed on insects and honeydew.
Acrobat Ants are members of the Crematogaster genus. They are small creatures, about 1/8 to 1/16 of an inch long. They range in color from light brown to black. They feed on aphids, insects and mealybugs. They have a heart-shaped abdomen.
They nest in wood, logs, stones, stumps, and other structures that are damp and soft. They can also nest in holes in the foundation of a building. They often nest in wood that has been damaged by decaying fungi or insects. They also nest in voids found in wood, such as in the baseboards or door frames.
Acrobat Ants are easily confused with carpenter ants. They have a red-colored abdomen. They also have 11-segmented antennae, three-segmented clubs, and a spatula-shaped stinger. These ants are found throughout North America. Acrobat ants have a diet similar to that of sugar ants. They also participate in a mutualism called myrmecophytism, where plants secrete food for their ants.
During acrobat ant’s acrobatics, the abdomen is raised over the thorax and head. The acrobat Ant raises its abdomen to protect its aphids and insects from predators.
