Argentine Ant
Argentine Ant Facts
| Size | 0.08-0.2 in (2.1-4.9 mm) |
| Speed | Unknown |
| Weight | Unknown |
| Lifespan | Unknown |
| Food | Insects, honeydew |
| Predators | Unknown |
| Habitat | South America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe |
| Order | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Ants |
| Subfamily | Dolichoderinae |
| Scientific name | Linephithema humile |
| Characteristics | Creates the largest ant colonies in the world |
Main Characteristics
Argentine Ants Are Conquerors
“... and tomorrow, the world!” could be their motto. The Argentine ant originally lived in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. They were accidentally taken to Europe on ships and planes.
Life Style
The Largest Ant Colony in the World
The Argentine ant seems to like the mediterranean region, as they created the largest ant colony in the world there. It stretches from the Italian Riviera to the North-West of Spain - that’s 3,728 miles (6,000 km)! Researchers call it a “super colony”.
Behavior
Argentine Ants Are Aggressive
Argentine ants are aggressive and systematically destroy other ants. First, they kill most of them, and then they eat their food. They push out native ants and damage flora and fauna.
Threat
The Argentine Ant Is an Invasive Species
An introduced species is an animal that settles in an area that it is not native to. This mostly happens due to international trade. The animals are transported as unknowing stowaways.
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