Frequently Asked Questions About Insects - Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University

Frequently Asked Questions

Topic:	Ants
Question:	Why doesn't extreme heat bother ants? How can they stay outside in 100-degree heat?
Answer:	Insects have been selected for millions of years to survive high temperatures. Ants and other insects have a variety of mechanisms to cope with heat. The most important is that they have legs. By elevating the body only a few millimeters above the surface of the ground, the temperature is several degrees cooler than at the surface. Insects also have waxy coatings, small body openings and require small amounts of air flow into the body which allows them to conserve water, which is critical to survival. Insects have behavorial patterns that allow them to escape uncomfortable conditions. They can find shade, turn away from the sun, slow their body movements and other activities. Honey bees actually use water as a cooling agent and fan with their wings to keep the hive comfortable. Temperatures of 100 degrees F are really not too difficult for insects to survive. When temperatures reach about 130 degrees F, though, protein coagulates. This is what happens when an egg cooks!
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Response by:	John A. Jackman, Ph.D.
Title:	Professor and Extension Specialist
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