| Range: |
Atlantic coast of Central and South America |
| Habitat: |
Rain forests |
| Conservation Status: |
Not listed by IUCN |
| Scientific Name: |
Paraponera clavata |
You might wonder where these ants got their name, until one of them stings you! Then you'll swear you've been hit by a bullet. These large tropical ants are among the world's most venomous insects. When their nest is disturbed, the ants defend themselves by delivering a painful and paralyzing sting. They often locate their nest in the ground at the base of trees. They use their antennae to "smell" food, danger, and each other. Adult bullet ants feed solely on nectar. But they feed their young (grubs) animal matter: invertebrates and other small animals.
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