The Allegheny mound ant (Formica exsectoides) is a species of ant native to the Atlantic area of North America. Its range extends from Nova Scotia to parts of Georgia. Like other field ants, the Allegheny mound ant builds large mounds, however this species tends to build some of the largest. To keep their mounds exposed to the sun, the ants kill vegetation within 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 m). They do this by injecting formic acid into plant stems, killing small trees and shrubs. Members of the formic acid producing genus Formica are known for their citrus taste. The Allegheny mound ant's appearance is very striking: both its head and thorax are red-orange; its gaster is black-brown.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Allegheny Mound Ant being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Formica integra
- Formica prociliata
- Formica obscuriventris
- Formica ulkei
- Formica integroides
- Formica obscuripes
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Formicidae
- Genus
- Formica
- Species
- Formica exsectoides
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