Why and how can ants live with their head cut off?
The notion that ants can live with their heads cut off is a popular myth. In reality, ants cannot survive for long without their heads because their heads contain vital organs, including the brain, mouthparts, and sensory receptors necessary for essential functions.
While it's true that certain body parts of an ant may continue to exhibit reflexive movements even after decapitation, these movements are a result of the ant's decentralized nervous system. The nerve ganglia located throughout the ant's body can still function to some extent, triggering reflexes without requiring input from the brain.
However, without the brain and other essential structures, the ant cannot perform basic functions like eating, drinking, or coordinating its activities. It would eventually succumb to the lack of vital functions and die shortly after decapitation.
If you're interested in learning more about the anatomy and unique adaptations of ants, you can read the article "The Anatomy of Ants: Understanding their Body Structure and Role."