Formicivorous

/ˌfɔːrmɪˈsɪvərəs/ adjective

Definition

Feeding on or eating ants; describing animals whose diet consists primarily of ants.

Etymology

From Latin 'formica' (ant) + 'vorare' (to eat) + '-ous' (adjective suffix). This compound adjective literally means 'ant-eating' and describes animals specialized in this diet.

Kelly Says

Formicivorous animals have evolved amazing adaptations—anteaters have incredibly long sticky tongues, aardvarks have massive claws, and some birds follow army ants waiting for insect escapes, all because ants are so nutritious and numerous.

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