Worker ants feed them constantly with regurgitated food, small insects, or plant material. Because of this steady food supply, larvae grow rapidly and molt several times as they increase in size. When a larva reaches its full size, it transforms into a pupa. This stage is a period of rest and major transformation called metamorphosis. During this phase, the ant’s body reorganizes and develops into its adult form. Pupae resemble adult ants, but their legs and antennae are folded tightly against their bodies. They start out pale or whitish and gradually darken as they mature. In some ant species, pupae spin a protective cocoon made of silk, while in others, they remain uncovered or “naked.” The duration of this stage varies depending on the species and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

Finally, the fully developed adult ant emerges from the pupa. Adult ants are divided into different roles, including workers, soldiers, and reproductive ants (queens and males). Worker ants are responsible for gathering food, caring for the young, and maintaining the nest. The queen’s main role is to reproduce, sometimes laying thousands of eggs in her lifetime.