Classification
Kingdom: Animalia- Also called the Metazoa and are not
prokaryotes nor protists.
They are multicellular and are heterotrophs, which means
they rely on other organisms for nourishment, unlike plants that
can create their own.
Phylum: Arthropoda- They are bilateral symmetrical protostomes with
segmented bodies. They
have an exoskeleton used for their protection and it is mainly made
up on chitin. The three
body parts that they are mainly separated into is the head, thorax
and abdomen. Most grow
by molting through their exoskeletons in a process called ecdysis.
A complex internal muscle system is put into place to control
their appendages for movement.
They also have a pair of compound eyes, a open circulatory
system and complete gut cavity.
Class: Insecta- They are like most arthropods in that they have the
three main body parts.
On their heads they have compound eyes as well as a pair of
antennae. Most also
have two pairs of wings attached to the thorax of their bodies.
They have a number of ganglia as well as a double ventral
nerve cord used for their sensory organs to be connected to the
brain. They are a
dioecious organism and reproduction takes place internally in most.
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Formicidae- These family members are distinctly known for
having a metapleural gland which produces an acid called phenyacetic
acid and it fights against fungi and bacteria.
This certain gland separates ants from the other hymenoptera.
Genus: Camponotus
Species: C. pennsylvanicus- These are the most common household pest. They are dark black in color ranging from 6-18 mm long. They will search up to 100 yards away in search of food and eat sugars and fats.