What is the primary diet of Carpenter Ants?

Carpenter ants primarily feed on honeydew, which is a sugary substance secreted by aphids and other sap-sucking insects. This high-energy food source is favored by carpenter ants as it provides them with the necessary carbohydrates for their energy needs. While carpenter ants are known for their wood-nesting habits, they do not consume wood as a food source; instead, they use it primarily for nesting.

The preference for honeydew highlights their behavior as scavengers and helps them establish a symbiotic relationship with aphids, as they often protect these insects in exchange for the honeydew they produce. This relationship is crucial for their survival, particularly in environments where other food sources might be scarce.

Other dietary components such as spiders and pollen might be included in their diet opportunistically, but honeydew remains their primary and most significant food source.