punamuurahainen

The punamuurahainen, scientifically known as Formica rufa, is a species of European red wood ant. These ants are a common sight in coniferous and mixed forests across Europe and parts of Asia. They are known for constructing large, conspicuous nests, often built from pine needles, twigs, and other forest debris. These mounds can reach impressive sizes, sometimes over a meter high and several meters in diameter, and can house millions of individual ants.

Formica rufa colonies are typically polygynous, meaning they have multiple queens. The ants are social insects and live in a highly organized society with distinct roles for workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals. Workers are responsible for foraging, nest maintenance, and caring for the young. They are known for their industrious nature and are often seen carrying food items or nest-building materials back to the mound.

These ants play a significant role in their ecosystems. They are predators, feeding on a variety of insects and other invertebrates, which helps control pest populations. They also collect honeydew, a sugary substance secreted by aphids, and are known to protect aphid colonies from predators in exchange for this food source. The punamuurahainen is an important component of forest biodiversity and contributes to the health and balance of its environment.