Why Does An Ant Carry Dead Ants?
WouterAmong the many intriguing aspects of the ant is their ability to carry dead ants. They have no eyes or ears, but they have a great sense of smell. They use this sense to communicate with other ants. They also carry dead comrades to a burial site. This practice is called necrophoresis.
They do this to keep their colony healthy and to protect other ants from the effects of parasitic fungi and pathogens. Some of the undertaker ants remain outside of the nest to prevent cross-contamination.
They also carry dead ants to a midden, or “dumpster,” to keep the nest clean. They may use the midden as a source of emergency sustenance or fertilizer.
The ant also releases a chemical called oleic acid to attract other ants. It is a chemical that is too strong for spiders to handle. When ants smell this, they rush to the dead body.
They also carry dead ants for other reasons. Some of them are transported to another colony or to a midden, or “dumpster,” where they are fed to another creature.
Some of the ants carry dead ants to a midden to protect the colony from diseases. They may also farm dead fungi for food. They may also use the midden as a way to signal their territory. They may also be involved in rescue operations.
The ant also has the ability to use the oleic acid to mark its midden. In addition, ants are involved in many other interesting social behaviors. They are omnivores, and eat fruits, sap, and small insects. They may also use tiny leaf cut-offs as food.
