About Platter Ant
An arboreal African ant with a heavily armored, flattened body and sculptured cuticle. Workers have a broad, shield-like head that can be used to block nest entrances. They nest in tree holes and have a slow, deliberate gait.
Did You Know?
Their flattened body and strong tarsal grip allow them to resist removal by predators by clamping flat against bark surfaces.
How to Identify Platter Ant
Platter Ant (Cataulacus intrudens) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Formicidae. Adults typically measure 3-6 mm.
Platter Ant Habitat
Platter Ant is found in forests habitats, particularly across West and Central Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Platter Ant Diet and Feeding
Platter Ant is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Platter Ant Found?
Platter Ant can be found in West and Central Africa, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Platter Ant can be found
Is Platter Ant Dangerous?
Platter Ant belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Platter Ant Role in Nature
Platter Ant is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Platter Ant
What does Platter Ant look like?
The Platter Ant typically measures 3-6 mm.
Where is Platter Ant found?
The Platter Ant is found in West and Central Africa and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does Platter Ant eat?
The Platter Ant feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Platter Ant dangerous to humans?
The Platter Ant belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about Platter Ant?
Their flattened body and strong tarsal grip allow them to resist removal by predators by clamping flat against bark surfaces.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Platter Ant (Cataulacus intrudens). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/platter-ant
MLA:
"Platter Ant." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/platter-ant.