Ants belong to one of the groups with the largest number of described species on the entire planet. According to the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), about 13,000 types of ants have currently been recorded, although it is estimated that there could be a total of 22,000.
These insects belong to the formicidae, which are identified by their antennae and structure in three sections with a narrow waist. Along with wasps and bees, they are species that live in highly complex social structures. They form colonies that can include as little as a few dozen members living in small natural cavities, up to families made up of millions of individuals that extend over large territories.
It should be noted that these insects play a very important role in the ecological balance, since they have a wide spectrum of food that is associated with numerous species of plants and animals. In addition, they increase organic matter, improve soil structure, disperse weed seeds, prey on arthropods, and disperse insects on the roots.
For some farmers, the presence of ants can be unpleasant because they are related to pests in some crops. However, some cultures have taken advantage of their presence, an example of which is southern China, where they use the leaf webs of weaver ants to protect their citrus crops.
On the other hand, in some parts of the world, ants represent a nutrient-rich food source, even haute cuisine, such as escamoles, which are known as «Mexican caviar» and are made from ant eggs.
Each species on the planet is part of a balance with the ecosystems and no matter how small a species is, its functions within the environment are important.
We invite you to learn more about the efforts of ants and many other insects that keep great secrets of nature in small bodies.
COLLABORATION OF EARTHGONOMIC MÉXICO, AC Our mission is to promote the development of society in harmony with the natural environment and respect for living beings. For more information visit: www.earthgonomic.org @Earthgonomic and /Earthgonomic
It might interest you