Cerapachys biroi, also known as the "Army Ant," is a species of small, predatory ant belonging to the Formicidae family. These ants are native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in regions like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The species name, "biroi," was given in honor of the Hungarian naturalist Lajos Biro.
Cerapachys biroi possesses several distinct characteristics. They are relatively small in size, measuring around 2 to 3 millimeters in length. The ants have a dark brown or black coloration, along with a slender and elongated body structure. They are equipped with sharp mandibles that help them capture and kill their prey efficiently.
Army ants, including Cerapachys biroi, are known for their highly social behavior. They form large colonies that consist of thousands of individuals. These ant colonies display complex division of labor, where different individuals perform specific tasks such as foraging, reproduction, and defense. They exhibit a nomadic lifestyle, frequently moving their nests to different locations as they search for food. This behavior is also connected to their name, "Army Ants," as they move in a coordinated manner, resembling a moving army.
Cerapachys biroi primarily feeds on small invertebrates, including other ants, termites, and insect larvae. They are efficient predators, capturing and paralyzing their prey using their sharp mandibles. During foraging, they leave a chemical trail known as pheromones, which guides other members of the colony towards the food source.
In conclusion, Cerapachys biroi is a species of predatory ant that forms large colonies, displays a nomadic lifestyle, and feeds on small invertebrates.
