- Cataglyphis bicolor: Common in North African sand dunes, these ants display remarkable adaptation to hot and arid conditions. They have long legs, light-colored bodies, and a rapid running speed to navigate the hot sands.
- Myrmecophilus nebrascensis (Dune Ant): Found in the North American Great Plains, these ants construct intricate underground nests in sand dunes. They exhibit cooperative behaviors and engage in foraging and seed-collecting activities.
- Trachymyrmex saussurei: Inhabiting sand dunes along the Pacific and Gulf coasts of North America, these harvester ants build impressive colonies and are known for their ability to withstand heat and water scarcity.
- Formica obscuripes: Also known as the "Thatching Ant," this species is found in coastal dunes and sandy areas of North America and Europe. They are distinctive for building thatch-like shelters made of plant debris and soil particles.
- Anoplolepis custodiens: Found in sand dunes in Australia and Africa, these ants engage in symbiotic relationships with plants, providing protection against herbivorous insects in exchange for nectar.
These ant species exhibit unique adaptations, such as long legs for rapid movement, specialized body coloration to reduce heat absorption, and efficient nest designs for managing extreme temperatures and conserving resources in the challenging conditions of sand dunes. Their presence contributes to the ecological balance and functioning of these dynamic ecosystems.
