Natural Ant Predators - Spiders, Antlions, Lizards

Natural Ant Predators: Insects and Animals That Feast on Ants

Ants may seem abundant, but they serve as vital food sources for diverse species. Many insects, arachnids, amphibians and other invertebrates prey greedily upon ants to survive. Here is an overview of key ant eaters in nature.

Antlions

This aptly named insect has a larval stage that specializes in devouring ants. The antlions construct cone-shaped pits in loose soil. When ants stumble in, the larva flicks soil to further trap and destabilize the prey. Powerful jaws then latch onto the ant, sucking out its bodily fluids.

Assassin Bugs

Also called ambush or kissing bugs, there are hundreds of assassin bug species adept at killing and consuming ants. Using razor-sharp beaks, they stab their ant prey and inject immobilizing toxins and digestive enzymes. The ants serve as convenient, ready-made meals.

Spiders

Numerous spider species prey upon ants, though most do not specialize exclusively in ants. Some hunt actively for solitary ants while others construct webs to trap stinging insects. Common groups including wolf spiders, ground spiders, jumping spiders and orb weavers that eat substantial numbers of ants.

Amphibians and Reptiles

Ants form an important part of the diets of many frogs, toads, newts, salamanders and lizards. Some smaller reptile and amphibian species gather at ant nests and hills to sweep up and consume worker ants as they leave the colony.

6 Surprising Ant Dishes Consumed Around the World

While we may grimace, many cultures actually prize ants as valuable menu ingredients. Here are 6 fascinating dishes featuring ants:

Hormigas Culonas (Colombia)

This Colombian delicacy comes from Santander province. It features hormigas culonas or fat-bottomed ants. They are possibly Atta laevigata ants harvested as the mature queens fly off to start new colonies. These ants are roasted, salted or candied into high protein snacks.

Saki of Aunts (India)

Some indigenous communities in Indias Chhattisgarh state collect and pickle ants to produce sina maruwa or ant saki wine. This traditional drink contains the essence of red forest ants like Camponotus compressus, considered to have medicinal and health-promoting effects.

Weaver Ant Eggs (Southeast Asia)

In countries like Thailand and Laos, the larvae and eggs of Oecophylla smaragdina or green tree ants are eaten. These protein-rich eggs are used in sauces, curries and salads. The aggressive adult ants themselves can also be made into a spicy relish.

Escamoles (Mexico)

Escamoles translates to ant caviar and comes from the larvae and pupae of Liometopum apiculatum. Known as root ants, they are harvested from underground nests each spring in Mexico and some Southwestern U.S. states. The escamoles taste buttery and nutty when sauted or fried.

Fourmi Glace (France)

The delicacy fourmi glace comes from Frances Provenal region. The European black ants Formica fusca are gathered from pine trees then drowned and candied with honey or brown sugar to produce this unusual glazed ant treat.

Chungwa Sauce (Kenya)

Across Kenya, harvesting safari ants or Dorylus species is common. The winged mature females called chungwa are collected to make a special namesake sauce. Sold by street vendors, this chili sauce pops with tart, lemon flavor.

6 Main Benefits of Eating Ants

We typically view ants as pesky insects. But they offer surprising nutritional and health benefits that science is now revealing:

Rich in Healthy Fats

For their size, ants contain high amounts of healthy fats. Some tropical ants boast over 60% fat content. These fats provide sustainable energy while supporting nervous system function.

Loaded with Protein

Ants supply substantial protein measured at upward of 13-25% protein per dry weight. This protein contains all essential amino acids necessary for growth, tissue repair and strength building.

High Iron

At 77-149 mg iron per 100 grams dry mass, ants can exceed the iron nutrient levels found in beef. This iron allows for healthy red blood cell production to prevent anemia.

Abundant Zinc

Zinc supports immunity and enzymatic reactions. Required in tiny amounts, ants still impress with around 6-30 mg zinc concentrated in each small insect body.

Rich in Vitamin B

Ant bodies provide high doses of energizing and blood protecting B vitamins including riboflavin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin and folic acid in just tiny servings.

Sustainable Mini-Livestock

As wild crops requiring no feed, fertilizer or land to raise, ants offer eco-friendly nutrition compared to traditional red meat production.

HowDifferent Cultures Cook and Eat Ants

Ants are surprisingly versatile. The flavor and preparation technique impacts how they taste. Here are some culinary tips:

Roasting

Dry roasting live or boiled ants brings out rich, savory flavor. Shake the pan or stir constantly to prevent burning.

Boiling

After cleaning, boil ants briefly to pasteurize and remove appendages. Pat dry before eating.

Frying

Pan frying in oil enhances the nutty, umami richness of ants. Many communities favor ants fried crispy as crunchy textural garnishes.

Spicing

Southern African cultures fix ants in a vibrant peri peri chili sauce. Mexican ant caviar gets blended with hot peppers too. Acids and heat offsetANT the ants inherent earthiness.

Sweetening

Candying ants in honey or sugar helps balance bitter tannins. This works especially well for large ants like honeypot or green tree ants. The sweetness contrasts nicely with the formic acid flavor.

Caveats Before Consuming Ants

While ants can supplement nutritional needs, exercise caution before eating:

• Confirm exact species and edibility
• Watch for allergic reactions
• Store safely and handle hygienically
• Moderate how much you eat initially

With over 12,000 types of ants globally, stick to verified edible kinds like leafcutter, honeypot or carpenter ants. Practice best food safety when harvesting, cleaning and preparing the nutritious insects.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.