Myrmecologist Ricardo ("Bob") Solar ponders the sharp mandibles of an Atta laevigata soldier, the world's largest leafcutter ant. 

Carrancas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Camponotus rufipes workers are quick to defend their nests. Here, a worker digs into my finger.

Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
Iridomyrmex purpureus meat ants are aggressive in defense of their colonies. Here, a guard ant attempts to take down the photographer.

Yandoit, Victoria, Australia
Iridomyrmex purpureus meat ants are aggressive in defense of their colonies. Here, a guard ant attempts to take down the photographer.

Yandoit, Victoria, Australia
Iridomyrmex purpureus meat ants are aggressive in defense of their colonies. Here, a guard ant attempts to take down the photographer.

Yandoit, Victoria, Australia
Most Camponotus are docile, timid insects.  Not Camponotus floridanus, the Florida Carpenter Ant .  These large red-and-black ants are quick to bite when bothered.

Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
Most Camponotus are docile, timid insects. Not Camponotus floridanus, the Florida Carpenter Ant . These large red-and-black ants are quick to bite when bothered.

Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
Most Camponotus are docile, timid insects.  Not Camponotus floridanus, the Florida Carpenter Ant .  These large red-and-black ants are quick to bite when bothered.

Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
Most Camponotus are docile, timid insects. Not Camponotus floridanus, the Florida Carpenter Ant . These large red-and-black ants are quick to bite when bothered.

Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
See photo in original gallery.
all images and text © Alex Wild 2001-2013