Why is it in the news?
Two new species (Aenictus chittoorensis and Aenictus lankamallensis) discovered in Eastern Ghats.
Highlights biodiversity of Andhra Pradesh region.
Category: Environment
Important Points:
● Army ants are nomadic and lack permanent nests
● Belong to subfamily Dorylinae
● Found mainly in tropical ecosystems
● Form temporary structures called “bivouacs”
● Practically blind; rely on pheromones for navigation
● Highly aggressive predators with coordinated raids
● Single queen with worker-based colony system
● Keystone predators regulating arthropod populations