Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 62

Wood ants, or Formica species, are primarily found in wooded areas where they can construct mounds or anthills. While some species can tolerate shade, most require sunlight and are found in open woodlands or grasslands. Many Formica species have been negatively impacted by landscape changes such as fire suppression and agricultural conversion. These ants have diverse nesting habits, ranging from simple excavations to large thatch nests. They play important ecological roles by maintaining populations of aphids and preying on other insects. Formica ants are known for their polygynous and polydomous colonies, and they secrete formic acid for defense. The genus currently contains over 290 extant species.