The World’s Fastest Ants Discovered: The “Saharan Silver Ants” Astonish Scientists

A new research project conducted in Germany has officially identified the world’s fastest ants: the Saharan silver ants (Cataglyphis bombycina). This remarkable discovery adds another fascinating example to the unique adaptations of desert-dwelling species.

According to TRT Haber via The Independent, German scientists found that these ants can move at a relative speed equivalent to nearly 580 km/h when scaled to their body size. Although they are not physically running at this speed, their body-to-speed ratio places them among the fastest creatures on Earth.

They Take Up to 50 Steps Per Second

Saharan silver ants can take approximately 50 steps per second, with step lengths ranging between 4.7 and 20.8 millimeters. Despite desert temperatures reaching 60°C, these ants manage to search for food and return to their nests with incredible efficiency.

A Shimmering Body Suited for Survival

Their name “silver ants” comes from their reflective, silver-colored hair-like structures that protect them from intense sunlight by reflecting heat.

Scientific Insight: All Six Legs Move at Once

Published in the Journal of Experimental Biology, the study by Sarah Pfeffer and her team at Ulm University revealed that these ants utilize all six legs simultaneously when accelerating. Researcher Harald Wolf explained that this running technique prevents them from sinking into the soft desert sand.

Other Fast Species Exist, but These Ants Still Lead Among Ants

A few invertebrates, such as the Paratarsotomus macropalpis mite and the Australian itch fly, surpass them in overall speed. However, among ant species, Saharan silver ants remain unmatched.

Why This Discovery Matters

The findings could influence future studies in biomechanics, robotics, and movement in extreme environments. Researchers believe these ants may inspire desert-adapted micro-robot designs.

Deritel extends its appreciation to the scientific team for their contributions.