Formicidae Collection (#5)

Ant (Azteca sp. ) adults, group on Tococa (Tococa guianensis) myrmerophytic plant
Ant (Azteca sp.) adults, group on Tococa (Tococa guianensis) myrmerophytic plant, ants protect plant from parasites and give to it azote of their excrements

Ants fighting (family Formicidae), illustration. Ants live in large colonies of sometimes millions of individuals. Soldier ants are typically worker ants that have large heads

Ant antenna, SEM
Ant antenna. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the antenna of an unidentified ant (family Formicidae). The hairs on the surface of the antenna may allow the ant to sense smell and touch

Ant feet, SEM
Ant feet. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the tip of two legs from an ant (family Formicidae). The end of an insect leg consists of the final segment, which is called the tarsus

Ant grooming, SEM
Ant grooming. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of an ant (family Formicidae) grooming one of its front legs between its jaws

Tropical ant head, SEM
Tropical ant head. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the head of a tropical ant (family Formicidae), showing one of its compound eyes (red)

Ant, 17th Century artwork
Ant. 17th Century artwork showing an ant as seen using an early microscope. Published in Micrographia (1665) by the English scientist Robert Hooke (1635-1703)

Southern wood ant nest. Nest of southern wood ants (Formica rufa) made from pine debris in a mountain woodland. Photographed in Italy

Ant head, SEM
Ant (family Formicidae) head, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). One of its compound eyes (red) is seen, as well as the two antennae that are mounted on the head between the eyes

Winged ant, SEM
Winged ant, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Winged ants develop after an ant colony has been established for several years

Matabele Ant column - hunting party returning to nest, some individuals with prey. Major and minor workers present
ASW-4857 Matabele Ant column - hunting party returning to nest, some individuals with prey. Major and minor workers present. Aggressive ants with a painful sting

For sale as Licensed Images

Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media

Formicidae, commonly known as ants, are fascinating creatures that exhibit remarkable strength and teamwork. In Costa Rica, leaf-cutter ants (Atta sp) can be seen tirelessly carrying plant matter, showcasing their impressive ability to transport loads much larger than themselves. These industrious insects form long lines as they march together, each ant diligently contributing to the task at hand. The intricate details of an ant's anatomy are revealed in a scanning electron microscope image. The precision and complexity of their body structure highlight their adaptability and efficiency in various environments. Digital composites capture the mesmerizing sight of a line of leaf-cutter ants gracefully carrying leaves through lush landscapes. In Laguna del Lagarto, the vibrant colors of plant matter carried by leaf cutter ants create a stunning reflection in water. This harmonious blend between nature and these tiny workers showcases the beauty found within even the smallest ecosystems. Traveling further into Tambopata Nature Reserve in Peru reveals another species of leafcutter ants - Atta cephalotes - diligently transporting pieces of leaves into their nest. Their unwavering dedication to building and maintaining their colony is truly awe-inspiring. The trap-jaw ant (Odontomachus hastatus) exhibits its unique defense mechanism with mandibles wide open at Los Amigos Biological Station in Peru. These powerful jaws serve not only for protection but also for capturing prey swiftly and efficiently. A side view of Messor sp. , commonly known as harvester ant, displays its distinctive features while going about its daily activities. Its strong presence reminds us that every creature has an important role to play in our ecosystem. Zooming closer into Myrmica molesta or red ant reveals intricate patterns on its exoskeleton when observed up close. Such attention to detail highlights the diversity present among different species within Formicidae family. Examining tropical ants under a scanning electron microscope unveils astonishing textures and structures on their bodies.