Formica cinerea is a captivating ant species renowned for its distinctive grey coloration and well-organized colony structure. Widely distributed across North Europe and parts of Russia, this species is typically found in drift sand on coastal dunes, as well as in inland sandy soils with sparse vegetation. Although primarily monogynous, some colonies may exhibit polygyny where multiple queens coexist. As an aggressive, predatory ant, Formica cinerea plays a significant role in its ecosystem, actively hunting and feeding on a variety of insects while also engaging in mutualistic relationships with aphids to harvest honeydew.
Formica cinerea
In its natural habitat, Formica cinerea thrives in environments that range from the windswept coastal dunes to the rugged morainic drifts of inland regions. The ants construct their nests in sandy soils where vegetation is sparse, creating stable colonies that can grow to include up to 10,000 workers. Their nests are carefully maintained, and the workers work collectively to forage and defend their territory. With a keen predatory instinct, these ants primarily hunt for cockroaches and crickets, yet they also take advantage of the sugary secretions provided by aphid colonies. This interaction not only sustains the ants but also plays a vital role in seed dispersal and plant propagation. The queen, measuring around 10–12 mm, leads a dedicated workforce of 6–8 mm workers, all of whom display the species’ distinctive grey exoskeleton.
