Recently, a viral tictok video caused excitement on the Internet, in which it was claimed to be able to perceive the smell of ants. This led to a heated debate in which the reactions from curiosity to complete unbelief. But what do ants actually smell? A wide range of comments resulted from this phenomenon: from a spicy smell to chemical or insecticide -like scents to an earthy or rusty stench. However, many denied this claim and thought it was a joke. In order to find out how common this ability is, an unofficial survey on Twitter with over 700 participants was carried out. The results were surprising: 20% stated that they could perceive the smell of ants while 80% were confused and could not understand this. In an attempt to bring scientific knowledge into the discussion, Entomologists carried out studies to get to the bottom of the phenomenon. They found that the smell of ants from chemical compounds such as methylons, which also occur in blue cheese and rotting coconuts. In addition, the smells differ depending on the ant. Some consider genetic factors to be a possible explanation, while others believe that regional differences could play a role. Some even argue that those who cannot perceive the smell have not yet made enough efforts. Although there is evidence that certain ant species actually have a characteristic smell, the question remains why some people can perceive it and others do not, a complex puzzle. The exploration of the smell of ants is not only a fascinating, but also constant research into the often overlooked miracles of nature and will cause both fascination and skepticism.

Recently, a viral tictok video caused excitement on the Internet, in which it was claimed to be able to perceive the smell of ants. This led to a heated debate in which the reactions from curiosity to complete unbelief. But what do ants actually smell? A wide range of comments resulted from this phenomenon: from a spicy smell to chemical or insecticide -like scents to an earthy or rusty stench. However, many denied this claim and thought it was a joke. In order to find out how common this ability is, an unofficial survey on Twitter with over 700 participants was carried out. The results were surprising: 20% stated that they could perceive the smell of ants while 80% were confused and could not understand this. In an attempt to bring scientific knowledge into the discussion, Entomologists carried out studies to get to the bottom of the phenomenon. They found that the smell of ants from chemical compounds such as methylons, which also occur in blue cheese and rotting coconuts. In addition, the smells differ depending on the ant. Some consider genetic factors to be a possible explanation, while others believe that regional differences could play a role. Some even argue that those who cannot perceive the smell have not yet made enough efforts. Although there is evidence that certain ant species actually have a characteristic smell, the question remains why some people can perceive it and others do not, a complex puzzle. The exploration of the smell of ants is not only a fascinating, but also constant research into the often overlooked miracles of nature and will cause both fascination and skepticism.

The public discourse: how do ants smell?

Lately, a controversial discussion on the Internet has caused a stir: People claim to be able to perceive the smell of ants. A Tikok video that went viral sparked this seemingly strange ability, and the reactions of the audience ranged from interest to complete disbelief.

The range of comments

The comments on this phenomenon were passionate and diverse:

• Some claimed that the smell was sharp or spicy.
• others compared the smell with chemicals or insect poison.
• Again others felt the smell of earthy, similar to that of stinking bugs.
• There were also descriptions of an acid, rusty smell.
• Many strictly rejected the claim and considered them a joke.

an unofficial survey

In response to this viral claim, an unofficial survey on Twitter with over 700 participants was carried out. Here are the results:

• 20% stated that they could perceive the smell of ants.
• 80% said that they could not perceive the smell and were confused about it.

it seems that there are actually people who claim to be able to perceive the smell of ants. But what is behind it?

Scientific studies

In order to give the discussion a scientific basis, Entomologists have carried out studies to examine the smell of ants more precisely. Here is what you found out:

In 2015, Clint Penick from North Carolina State University examined the smell of the odor house Iise (Tapinoma Sessile), an ants widespread in North America. The most common odor description was "blue cheese", but smells similar to chemical cleaning agents or lazy coconuts were also perceived. The smell is caused by methylketones, which can also be found in blue cheese and lazy coconuts.

There are other types of ants that separate specific smells. For example, carpenter ants exude ants when they are threatened, which smells of vinegar. Lemonel anelles are named after the acid citrus fragrance, which they produce to deter enemies.

genetic and regional differences

Some argue that genetic factors could play a role in the perception of the smell of ants. There are comparisons with a gene that causes coriander to taste like soap for some people, although the evidence is thin.

The ant species in your own region can also affect the smell, since some ants smell more than others.

Some also speculate that those who cannot perceive the smell of ants just didn't try it strongly enough.

a fascinating and continuous research

The ability to perceive the smell of ants has conquered the Internet in the storm and triggered both violent discussions and scientific studies. Although there is evidence that certain ant types actually separate different smells, the question remains why some people can perceive these smells and others do not, a complex puzzle. Whether it is due to genetic factors, regional ants or individual efforts - this curious phenomenon continues to stimulate thinking and research.

Linking to studies dealing with the smell of ants, such as a study of the blue cheese smell and an article about anthrous acid, offers further insights into this fascinating topic. The research of the smell of ants reminds us of the often overlooked miracles of nature and will undoubtedly continue to begin curiosity and skepticism.