Ants and Water: How Long Can They Survive Underwater?

A common myth suggests that ants can survive underwater for extended periods. However, this is a misconception. Ants can only hold their breath for a limited time and their survival in water is highly dependent on species, temperature, and water chemistry.

Introduction to Ant Survival in Water

Ants typically can survive in water for a limited amount of time, usually ranging from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the species and environmental conditions. Some ants, such as fire ants, can survive longer by forming floating rafts or using air bubbles to breathe. For example, fire ants can quickly bond together to create floating rafts, which helps them survive in flood situations. However, prolonged submersion can lead to drowning, as ants do not possess gills and rely on oxygen from the air.

Factors Affecting Ant Survival Time

The survival time of ants in water is influenced by several factors:

Species: Different species of ants can have varying tolerances for water. Some ants like Campanotus schmitzi can swim in the fluids of pitcher plants and prey on mosquito larvae. Water Temperature: Cold water tends to have more dissolved oxygen, which can help ants survive longer. Conversely, warm water can deplete oxygen more quickly, leading to faster drowning. Water Chemistry: Salt water generally contains less oxygen and can kill ants more quickly compared to fresh water. The more saline the water, the faster the ants will drown.

Specific Examples of Ant Survival Times

The survival time of ants in water can vary significantly based on species and conditions. For instance, Carpenter ants can stay submerged for up to 14 days, as mentioned in an old ORKIN commercial. Another example is the Campanotus schmitzi, which can swim underwater in pitcher plant fluids to prey on mosquito larvae.

It is important to note that ants cannot breathe underwater and will eventually drown if submerged for too long. The time it takes for an ant to drown depends on the species and water conditions. Generally, most ants will die within a few minutes of being submerged, as they require air to survive. Some species, however, can hold their breath for up to an hour or two, but prolonged exposure is still dangerous.

Conclusion and Additional Information

While it is not advisable to purposefully submerge ants to observe their survival times, understanding the factors that affect their underwater survival can be useful in various contexts. For example, carpenter ants can form bridges and swim for hundreds of kilometers to survive flooding or to cross rivers. This ability is particularly useful for those dealing with pest control and managing ant populations.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that certain substances, such as glass cleaner, can be highly effective in killing ants. Spraying glass cleaner along ant trails can quickly eliminate colonies without the need for toxic poisons, making it a practical and environmentally friendly solution.

When dealing with ants, it is crucial to understand their behavior and environmental needs to effectively manage them. By knowing the limitations of their survival in water, you can better devise strategies to control ant populations.