Ants living in dry climates need to store food to survive for long periods of time. In the North American desert, the Myrmecocystus ant uses its body as a storage container, storing nutrients so it can “supply” its nestmates when needed.

A colony of Eciton ants moves in a unique “vertical formation”.

Ant larvae, although immature, are indispensable members of the ant colony. They help regulate the nutritional levels of all members of the colony, and in some species they are useful during nest building. The ant pictured here, the Dracula ant, from Madagascar, is one of thousands of ant species that have not yet been officially classified.

Researchers at the University of Arizona, USA, tracked the activities of each individual in the ant community by marking their wings with colorful markings.

The Indian ant, Harpegnathos saltator, will be one of the first ant species to have its genome sequenced.

A Podomyrma ant is “taking care” of a Lycaenid caterpillar in South Australia. These caterpillars contain substances that attract ants, which in turn protect the caterpillars from other parasites. Ants are a large species, so many other species depend on them in many ways.

Malagasy ants are considered the most strange-looking ants in the ant family. They depend on fallen leaves in the tropics.

Two Pogonomyrmex ants in two adjacent nests are participating in a “ritual” fight, showing off their strength but not hurting each other. Scientists believe that ant colonies use this action to collect information about their “neighbors”. Understanding the strength of their enemies helps ants establish territorial boundaries, avoiding “bloody conflicts”.

Some ant species divide into many species with different shapes and sizes, to perform many tasks. The difference in size between these two ants is the result of nutritional interdependence.

Cecropia ants are guarding their area against invaders. Working together, they will surround and immobilize the enemy by binding them tightly.