They are easily identified by their geniculate (elbowed) antennae and the distinctive node-like structure that forms their slender waists. Plus, check out our ant pictures (where available) to aid in ant identification. More than 13,800 of an estimated total of 22,000 species have been classified. Learn how to identify each species, understand their nesting habits, and discover how their colonies grow and reproduce. Exploring this list reveals the diversity of ants –beyond flying ants and other common ants. They are among the most successful insects on earth, with over 12,000 known species and a presence on every continent except antarctica. · ants belong to the family formicidae within the order hymenoptera, which they share with bees and wasps. · ant, (family formicidae), any of approximately 10,000 species of insects that are social in habit and live together in organized colonies. · this guide explores 26 common types of ants you might encounter, whether in your home, garden, or outdoors. Ants evolved from vespoid wasp ancestors in the cretaceous period. Learn about the diversity and characteristics of ants , one of the worlds most common insects. Ants occur worldwide but are most numerous, both in numbers and in species, in tropical and subtropical regions.