Dorylinae

Dorylinae is a subfamily of ants belonging to the family Formicidae. These ants are commonly known as army ants or legionary ants, a designation shared with other ant groups that exhibit similar nomadic and predatory behaviors. Dorylinae ants are characterized by their large colonies, complex social structures, and the frequent, massive foraging expeditions undertaken by their worker ants. These expeditions, often referred to as raids, involve vast numbers of ants swarming over an area to capture prey, which primarily consists of other invertebrates, including other ants, termites, and various arthropods.

The subfamily Dorylinae is further divided into several tribes, with the most prominent being Dorylini, which includes the well-known driver ants of Africa and Asia, and Ecitonini, comprising the New World army ants. These ants are typically blind or possess greatly reduced eyes, relying heavily on tactile and chemical cues for navigation and hunting. Their life cycle is characterized by cyclical nomadic and stationary phases. During the stationary phase, the colony forms a temporary nest, or bivouac, often constructed from their own bodies, where the queen lays her eggs. Once the larvae mature, the colony enters the nomadic phase, moving frequently in search of food.

Dorylinae ants play a significant role in their ecosystems as powerful predators, helping to regulate populations of other invertebrates. Their coordinated hunting strategies and sheer numbers can decimate prey populations within their foraging range. Despite their formidable predatory nature, Dorylinae ants are rarely aggressive towards humans unless their colonies are disturbed, in which case they can deliver painful bites. Their complex social organization and specialized behaviors have made them a subject of considerable scientific interest.