In the fascinating world of insects, ants are one of a very select handful of species in the animal kingdom that are sophisticated enough to farm aphids similar to how humans raise livestock. In a symbiotic relationship, ants have been observed meticulously herding and caring for colonies of aphids to ensure a steady supply of honeydew, a favorite food source.
This sugary secretion produced by aphids is highly prized by ants and leads them to protect and even nurture aphid populations. This unlikely farming practice has profound implications not only for the ants and aphids but also for the plants and the broader ecosystem.
Quick Answer
Ants do not typically eat aphids. Instead, they farm and protect them to harvest honeydew, a sweet, sticky substance that aphids excrete. Ants even "milk" aphids by stroking their abdomens to encourage honeydew production.
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Quick Facts
~1 month, 40-85 offspring each
Sugary secretion ants harvest
Ladybugs, lacewings, hoverflies
