metsälehmämuurahainen

Metsälehmämuurahainen, scientifically known as Formica aquilonia, is a species of wood ant native to Europe and Asia. It is commonly found in coniferous forests, where it constructs large, complex nests, often referred to as anthills. These nests are typically made from pine needles, twigs, and other organic materials, and can reach significant sizes, sometimes several meters in diameter and height.

This ant species is highly social and lives in colonies that can contain hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of individuals. The colonies are typically polygynous, meaning they have multiple queens. Metsälehmämuurahainen plays an important role in its forest ecosystem. They are predators, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates, and also scavenge for dead organisms. Their nest-building activities help to aerate the soil and recycle nutrients.

Metsälehmämuurahainen are often confused with other similar wood ant species, such as Formica rufa. Distinguishing features can include the density of hairs on their thorax and the shape of their antennae. Like other ants, they communicate through pheromones and have a distinct caste system, with workers, soldiers, and reproductive queens. Their foraging activities can extend over a considerable area around their nest.