Ants are one of the most common and widespread insects in the world. They can be found in almost every habitat, from forests to deserts, and from gardens to kitchens. In addition, they are one of the most common and persistent pests in urban areas as well. They can invade homes, offices, schools, hospitals, and other buildings, causing damage, nuisance, and health risks. Ants can contaminate food and water, transmit diseases, bite or sting people and pets, and undermine the structural integrity of buildings by nesting in wood or soil. Ants can also interfere with electrical wiring, plumbing, and landscaping.
Ants have a wide range of diets, depending on their species and ecological niche. They typically eat nectar, seeds, fungus, or insects. However, some species have more unusual diets, such as plant sap, honeydew, or even other ants. Some ants are farmers, who cultivate fungus or aphids for food. Some ants are hunters, who capture and kill prey with their powerful mandibles or venomous stings. Some ants are scavengers, who feed on dead animals or organic waste.
Ants are found on almost every landmass on Earth, except for Antarctica and some remote islands. They thrive in diverse habitats, from deserts to rainforests, from mountains to oceans. They can withstand extreme temperatures, droughts, floods, and fires. They can also colonize new areas by hitchhiking on plants, animals, or human-made objects. Ants are estimated to make up 15-25% of the terrestrial animal biomass, which means they weigh more than all the wild birds and mammals combined. They also have important roles in the ecosystem and human society by decomposing organic matter, recycling nutrients, dispersing seeds, pollinating flowers, controlling natural pests, and enriching soil.
