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Carpenter ant

Camponotus americanus

Photo by Brian38
Published on Project Noah
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34.4353, -93.052

Field Notes

Description:

This species of Carpenter ant is fairly common in the southeast United States. I found this one protecting some nymphs. Not sure what the species of the nymph is. Carpenter ants will collect their sugary excretions and protect them from predators. An amazing symbiotic relationship.

Habitat:

Spotted along a trail thru a mixed forest at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Reference Links:

Camponotus americanus - Wikipedia, Camponotus (Camponotus) americanus Mayr

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)
HemaShah
looks like it is protecting black aphids in exchange for the sugary drink

Spotted for Missions

Mission
Wild Arkansas
Mission
2018 Best Wildlife Photo

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Photographed
PublishedSeptember 26, 2018

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