Wallington Ant Control

For the #1 top-rated, same- day service, ant control company in the area, call Kapture Pest Control today!

When dealing with ant infestations in Wallington, our technician will identify the location of the ant issue before treatment. This allows us to make a targeted application right in their nesting site, instead of just spraying blindly. We also ensure to carry out ant control treatments which entail blocking entry points and deterring ants from coming into the home.

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Kapture Ant Control

Kapture Pest Control has a reputation for producing the best results with as little hassle in Wallington ant control in Bergen County. So, if you live in Wallington, New Jersey, call the Kapture Pest Control ant removal experts today for any pest control services needed for your property.

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Can ants swim?

Ants are renowned for their industrious nature and remarkable ability to navigate diverse terrains. From crawling across the ground to scaling trees, these tiny creatures seem to conquer every obstacle in their path. But what about water? Can ants swim? In this article, we explore the surprising truth about ants and their aquatic prowess.

Ants and Water: An Unexpected Encounter

In general, ants are not natural swimmers. Their bodies are not adapted for efficient movement in water, and unlike aquatic insects like water striders or water beetles, ants lack specialized appendages or water-repellent coatings on their bodies. As a result, encountering water poses a significant challenge for these industrious insects.

When ants come across water bodies such as puddles, ponds, or streams, they typically exhibit behaviors that aim to avoid or navigate around the water rather than swim through it. They may create bridges using their bodies or form living rafts by linking together and floating on the water’s surface. These strategies allow them to traverse short distances across water without becoming submerged.

Water Repellency and Adaptations

While ants are not equipped with innate swimming abilities, they do possess some adaptations that assist them in dealing with water encounters to some extent.

1. Hydrophobic Exoskeleton: The exoskeleton of ants has a waxy outer layer that repels water, allowing them to stay afloat for a short period. This hydrophobic coating prevents immediate soaking and gives them a chance to escape water hazards quickly.
2. Air Trapping: When submerged in water, ants can trap air bubbles between their bodies and the water’s surface. These air pockets act as a buoyancy aid, helping them stay afloat for a limited time. However, prolonged submersion would cause these air pockets to dissipate, resulting in drowning.

3. Survival Instincts: When an ant finds itself in water, it will instinctively try to reach a solid surface or object. By latching onto vegetation, debris, or even the bodies of other ants, they can find stability and a means to exit the water.

Exceptions to the Rule

While most ant species are not natural swimmers, there are a few exceptions within the vast and diverse world of ants. Some ants have developed unique adaptations to aquatic environments, allowing them to thrive in water habitats.

1. Weaver Ants: Certain species of weaver ants (Oecophylla spp.) have demonstrated a remarkable ability to swim. They possess elongated legs and flattened bodies, which facilitate swimming motions and increase buoyancy. These ants are often found near rivers or in rainforest habitats where they build intricate nests in tree canopies.

2. Floodwater Ants: Floodwater ants (Formica spp.) are known for their exceptional survival skills in flood-prone areas. When faced with rising waters, these ants exhibit collective behavior, forming massive floating rafts composed of thousands of individuals. The rafts allow them to stay afloat until they can reach higher ground.

While most ants are not adapted for swimming, they employ ingenious strategies to overcome water obstacles. By utilizing their hydrophobic exoskeletons, air-trapping abilities, and cooperative behaviors, they can navigate short distances across water bodies. However, swimming is not a natural skill for ants, and they are limited in their ability to remain submerged for extended periods.

The exceptions, such as weaver ants and floodwater ants, highlight the remarkable adaptability and resilience within the ant world. These species have developed unique anatomical features and collective behaviors that enable them to thrive in aquatic environments.

So, while ants may not be expert swimmers, their resourcefulness and ability to overcome challenges in various environments continue to fascinate.

Wallington, NJ, residents – let’s get your ant problem under control?
Call Kapture Pest Control!