A myrmecophile is an organism that lives in association with
ants. Myrmecophily literally means ant-loving and refers to
mutualistic associations with ants, though in its more general use the term may also refer other relationships with ants, ones better described as
commensal or even
parasitic.Myrmecophiles may have various roles in their host ant colony. Many consume waste materials in the nests, such as dead ants, dead larvae, or
fungi growing in the nest. Some myrmecophiles, however, feed on the stored food supplies of ants, and a few are predatory on ant eggs, larvae, or pupae. Others benefit the ants by providing a food source for them. Many myrmecophilous relationships are obligate, meaning one or the other participant requires the relationship for survival. Some associations are facultative, benefiting one or both participants but not being necessary to their survival.
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