Quick answer
Ants (Formicidae) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The tireless team-working insect. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.000005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Workers weeks to a year; queens up to 15+ years. They feed on omnivore (varies by species) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, in habitats from deserts and forests to cities.
Key takeaway
Ants (Formicidae) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The tireless team-working insect. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.000005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Workers weeks to a year; queens up to 15+ years. They feed on omnivore (varies by species) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, in habitats from deserts and forests to cities.
Ant overview
Ant (Formicidae) is an insect listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.000005 kg; lifespan around Workers weeks to a year; queens up to 15+ years.
Ant ecology
Diet: Omnivore (varies by species). Habitat: Almost everywhere except the far poles. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Ants and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild ants are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Ant profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Ants inhabit Found on every continent except Antarctica, in habitats from deserts and forests to cities. Their preferred habitat includes almost everywhere except the far poles, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Africa, Asia, Eur
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult ants typically measure about 0.006 m in length and weigh roughly 0.000005 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Ants are known for the tireless team-working insect — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Ant FAQs
What are key facts about ants?
Ants (Formicidae) are insects found across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania. The tireless team-working insect. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.000005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 0.3 km/h (0 mph), and live Workers weeks to a year; queens up to 15+ years. They feed on omnivore (varies by species) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, in habitats from deserts and forests to cities.
What is the scientific name of the ant?
Formicidae — used in research and conservation listings for ants.
What do ants eat?
Ants eat varies by species, with seasonal and regional variation in Almost everywhere except the far poles.
Where do ants live?
They are associated with Almost everywhere except the far poles. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of ants?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.