operárias

Operárias is a term used in Portuguese to refer to female worker ants. These ants are a vital component of an ant colony, responsible for all tasks related to the colony's survival and reproduction, except for laying eggs. Their roles are diverse and can include foraging for food, caring for the queen and brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae), constructing and maintaining the nest, and defending the colony from threats.

The physical characteristics of operárias can vary depending on the species and their specific duties within the colony. Some operárias may have specialized mandibles for cutting or carrying food, while others might possess defensive structures like stingers. Their lifespan also varies, with many living for several months to a few years.

The division of labor among operárias is often determined by age and genetic predisposition, a phenomenon known as polyethism. Younger ants typically perform tasks within the nest, such as caring for the young, while older ants venture out to forage or defend the territory. This specialized system allows ant colonies to operate with remarkable efficiency, contributing to their ecological success and widespread presence across various habitats.