Size
Bullet ants are relatively large, measuring about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length.
Habitat
They are found in humid rainforests of Central and South America, nesting at the base of trees.
Aggressiveness
Bullet ants are fiercely territorial and aggressive, defending their nests with potent stings.
Sting
Their sting is rated as the most painful of any insect sting on the Schmidt Sting Pain Index, described as causing intense, throbbing pain lasting for hours.
Venom
The venom of bullet ants contains a potent neurotoxin that affects nerve impulses, contributing to the severe pain experienced by their victims
Behavior
They exhibit swarm behavior when threatened, attacking intruders in large numbers.
Defense Mechanism
Bullet ants release alarm pheromones when disturbed, signaling nearby ants to join in the defense of their colony.
Impact
Indigenous tribes in some regions use bullet ants in initiation rites, where young men endure multiple stings as a test of courage and endurance.