myrmecophagy

biology

Also known as: anteating

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July 1, 2026

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Myrmecophagy refers to the practice of feeding on ants. This dietary specialization has led to similar physical traits in diverse mammals, including strong claws, elongated skulls, extensible tongues, reduced jaws, and simplified teeth.12

Examples of myrmecophagous animals include the echidna, numbat, anteater, aardvark, and pangolin. Some ants also play a role in seed dispersal by consuming specific parts of seeds, aiding in their spread. The term "myrmecophagous" is derived from Greek roots meaning "ant" and "to eat".231

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mammal
Teeth
…termites, a specialization generally termed myrmecophagy (“ant eating”). Trends frequently associated with myrmecophagy include strong claws, an elongate rounded skull, a wormlike extensible tongue, marked reduction in the mandible (lower jaw), and loss or extreme simplification of the teeth (dentition). This habit has led to remarkably similar morphology among animals…
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…termites, a specialization generally termed myrmecophagy (“ant eating”). Trends frequently associated with myrmecophagy include strong claws, an elongate rounded skull, a wormlike extensible tongue, marked reduction in the mandible (lower jaw), and loss or extreme simplification of the teeth (dentition). This habit has led to remarkably similar morphology among animals…
Read More