Types of Ants

Ants are everywhere, from the dense, tropical rain forests of south America to the dry, hot desserts of Africa. You can even easily see them lurking in your kitchen or backyard. You would be amazed to know, that there are 11,880 known species of ants all over the world. The total mass of ants taken together, exceeds that of human beings. Isn't that fascinating? Let's take an overview of the most common species of ants found across the world.

Types of Ants

Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are often found in the kitchen, lurking in search of food. They set up a 'satellite colony' at their 'workplace', which is located close to their parent colony. These ants choose old, water damaged wood to make their nests. This wood is very easy to chew and hence, can they can make their passageways through it.

Fire Ants
Fire ants are named after the stinging sensation, that is left after an ant-bite. The stinging sensation is due to the harmful chemical substance which is capable of inducing allergies in some people. The sting is lethal to animals, as well as some human beings. Fire ants build their nests in the soil, which can be easily identified by the holes present on the surface.

Western Harvester Ants
Western harvester ants are mostly found in the western part of the United States. These ants build their nests in the form of mounds which measure about 1-4 feet wide and 2-10 inches high. The peculiarity of these ants is, that they clean the place of any debris, before they build their nest, so as to ensure that the sunlight reaches their mound.

Honey Pot Ants
Honey pot ants are easily distinguishable due to their large abdomen. They are mostly found in hot, dry areas of Australia, North America and Africa. These ants are also consumed as a delicacy in some areas.

Weaver Ants
Weaver ants build their nest by weaving the leaves together. The leaves are sewn together with the help of silk producing larvae, which are pressed together, to attach the leaves.

Leaf Cutter Ants
Leaf cutter ants feed on fungus only. The functions are distributed depending upon the rank of the ants in the nest.

Odorous Ants
Odorous ants are found across the United States. They build their nests outdoors, in soil or under the debris. They may also build their nests indoors, in the crevices of walls, in moist and warm areas. When crushed, they give out a foul, offensive odor, similar to that of a rotten coconut, hence the name.

Ghost Ants
Ghost ants are tiny ants that have a dark-colored head and thorax and almost transparent abdomen and legs. This physical structure makes it difficult to spot them, hence the name. Ghost ants build their nests in tree cavities, under loose bark, at the base of palm fronds, in flowerpots, under the ground etc.

Besides the above mentioned types, the other types of ant species that are commonly found are Cornfield Ants, Pharaoh Ants, Lawn Ants, Bulldog Ants etc. Ants are a nasty form of pests and are pretty tough to get rid of. However, maintaining a clean environment and depriving them of their food, can help in controlling most house ants and other insects. Although, ants are not necessarily dangerous, certain ant bites may produce a serious health problem.