Nuptial flight

Definition

A reproductive behavior in which winged ants and some other insects take to the air in large numbers to mate during a specific time period, usually triggered by environmental cues such as temperature and humidity.

Etymology

From Latin 'nuptialis' meaning 'pertaining to marriage', and Old English 'flyht', derived from 'fleogan', meaning 'to fly'.

Example

During the nuptial flight, male and female ants leave their nests to mate in the air, after which the fertilized queen lands to establish a new colony.

Synonyms

• Mating flight
• Dispersal flight

Related Terms

• Antennal contact
• Colony establishment
• Swarming
• Alates

Usage Notes

Nuptial flights are crucial for the dispersal and genetic diversity of ant colonies. Environmental conditions such as warm temperatures and high humidity often trigger these flights.