5 Deadliest Killer Ant Species in the World

5 Deadliest Killer Ant Species in the World

___________________

Few people know that ants have a real ability to kill and heavily influence the environment around them. They are one of the most successful species of organisms on the entire planet, having adapated to varying climates and locations in nearly all seven continents. Some have even evolved to develop wings.

The secret to success lies in numbers – huge numbers. Out of the 12,000 species of ants currently classified, these five make it to the top for being  the deadliest killer ants in the world.

FIRE ANTS

“Fire ants (0.24 inches long) have been a widespread problem in the United States after they were accidentally introduced in the 1930s. Known for their large ant mound colonies and aggressive nature, they attack in swarms following pheromones released by the first ant’s sting. So if you are stung once, you are bound to get attacked by the entire colony if you can’t get away quick enough. Small animals such as birds and even larger mammals like newborn calves often become victims because they cannot escape in time before they are devoured en masse.”

ARGENTINE ANTS

“The Argentine ant (1/10 inch long) is highly social ant species, known for extensive organization of its colonies. In fact, the ants are so genetically similar that individual ants can walk into a range of nearby colonies without being killed for intrusion. Merged supercolonies are destructive, especially if near human settlements. The problem with Argentine ants is that they are among the world’s top 100 animal invaders, known for killing off competing ant species in non-native geographical areas, such as in Australia. In the article linked above, the scientists state that an Argentine ant supercolony thousands of miles wide can form across southern Australia if the native ants of that region have the same genetic makeup and behavior.“

SIAFU ANTS

“The ants march through the forests in groups of millions, eating anything that moves and severely impacting the local environment (even elephants run from them). The term “killer ant” usually applies to this species simply because of the magnitude of the colony sizes (over 20 million individuals). When in large transit, the ants travel in long columns on the forest floor, with the stronger class of ants on opposite sides flanking in ready position – jaws ready. They are so strong in fact, that you can tear the ant in two after it bit into your skin and its jaw will still be locked in position. In East Africa, emergency situations call for using the actual jaws of the Siafu ants as ‘stitches’, sealing off open wounds.”

Bulldog Ants
“Even scarier is the numerous predatory skills they have compared to other ant species, such as excellent vision (they can spot and follow you from a meter away), highly painful stings that can cause anaphylactic shock in allergic people, and they are very aggressive to intruders, including humans. This combination makes them responsible for the deaths of people every year in Australia.“

Bullet Ants

“Bullet ants of South America are known to have the most painful sting of insects on the entire planet, rated at the highest of the Schmidt Pain Index at 4.0+. The name of the ant is derived from the intense 24-hour pain the venom from the stings cause. Bullet ants are also giants, ranging from 18 to 25 mm long (1 inch). The venom is highly neurotoxic, causing excruciating pain when injected into mammal smooth muscle. When attacked, these killer ants release a musky order, swarm together to defend against the intruders, and literally grab and sting them to death.“

10 Most Weird Inventions of 2012

Inventions mean to benefit mankind. Either remarkable or weird, they are intended to simplify the hassle of daily life. Many students and scientists keep on researching strange ideas and finally come up with some useful inventions that are at the time look weird but when we get addicted, these inventions dominate our lifestyle.
Today, various inventions, some of which are really very odd, have improved our living standards. Let’s have a look at these 10 most weird inventions of 2012.

10. Macbook With Book Like Cover

This book like cover of a macbook is really weird but looks awesome while working. For those who want to display their affection with books can cover their macbook with this witty book skin invention.

9. Dusting Slippers

Dusting slippers and the dusting baby suit are one of the weird inventions of 2012. This sort of slippers and baby suits are really very helpful to keep your home clean while you walk or your baby crawl on floor.

8. Shoe Box Stairs

If you have a big collection of shoes, then you must have these shoe box stairs that are not only weird but are useful as well. After getting this idea, I just thought to have some stairs like this one. Shoe box stairs are also working when you have little living space with more shoes around messing up your home.

7. Butter Stick

Easy to apply on toast, butter stick invention makes one wondering about such a simple but creative idea. I love this weird invention that only needs little effort but results in ease at breakfast table.

6. Bear Lip Gloss

This is one of its kind bear flavored gloss for ladies introduced by the Heineken beer brand. What a strange but remarkable invention that feasts both as gloss and bear to girls and to their boyfriends when kissing. This Bear lip gloss product and its campaign is developed by the JWT agency in Milan. Enjoy the lip licking.

5. Keyboard Cups

Another interesting but weird invention is the white and black plastic drinking keyboard cups invented by China. These keyboard cups are available in Control, Alt, and Delete key shapes with a circuit board saucer in different colors.

4. Bedtime Reading Quilt

I like this bedtime reading quilt idea as I love to read books in night. This is more than a weird but wonderful invention to have both an entertaining and warm bedtime. The bedtime reading quilts have several layers with various classic bedtime stories imprinted, you can turn out the layer to enjoy the stories.

3. Pizza Scissor

Though cutting pizza is not that much difficult but pizza scissor is quite an innovative kitchen gadget that combines both a scissor and a wedge shaped spatula. Scissor helps cutting the pizza whereas spatula helps in lifting the slice.

2. Chop Sticks With Fan

Here is a unique chop stick invented for you all. Quite bizarre yet funny about chop sticks is coming up with fan that instantly cools down your meal. Now you just need to take out your efficient chop sticks pair, turn the fan on and enjoy the noodles.

1. Funny Lap Pillow

Lap pillow is a weird Japanese invention that one can really enjoy while sleeping. It is a best boyfriend gift inspired of beautiful woman legs. So, grab a funny lap pillow and make your boyfriend dream of you while on sleep journey.

Top Ten Famous Fashion Brands of 2012

Fashion brands are the ultimate destination of getting high end trend and class. Today there exist many fashion brands internationally some of which are quite famous due to their exciting products and fashion clothing line.
Some are haute couture consisting of fragrances, wrist watches, swimwear, jewelry, and summer and spring dress collections whereas some offer prêt a porter. Fashion brands have potential fashion designers working behind them and bringing fame to their name.
Get a glimpse of top ten famous fashion brands of 2012 here.

10. Hugo Boss

Fashion brand Hugo Boss is the best choice for men’s fashion that bestows a complete range of men’s shoe, men’s colognes, men’s suiting and men’s fashion with its colored labels BOSS Black, BOSS Orange, BOSS Green and Hugo.

9. Dolce & Gabbana

The fantasy fashion world by Dolce & Gabbana is known for designing spectacular leather products such as shoes, and hand bags. It also creates trendy D&G outfits, scarves, ties and perfumes. Fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana provides works for all men, women and kids.

8. Prada

Prada needs no introduction to narrate its popularity in fashion world. It’s the choice of Hollywood diva Angelina Jolie and of many Hollywood hotties. The label became world famous for blending simplicity and sophistication in its atelier.

7. Calvin Klein

One of the top 10 most famous fashion brands of 2012 is undoubtedly, the Calvin Klein that excels in men and women clothing, jewelry, accessories, watches, fragrances, handbags, footwear, partywear, bedding, dinnerware and in each category that fashionistas look for. It is also the most favorite fashion brand of various Hollywood celebs who love to don CK.

6. Victoria Secret

Victoria Secret is an impeccable women fashion brand that typically deals with women accessories, sleepwear, beachwear, swimwear, shoes, bras and beauty products. The brand became famous for its mesmerizing collection of women products and grand fashion shows.
The fashion models of Victoria Secret are its angles who beautifully represent Victoria Secret collections on fashion runways.

5. Chanel

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld is the most hip haute couture that specializes in ready-to-wear, perfumes, accessories, beauty products, cosmetics, jewellery, hand bags, watches and all lifestyle products.

4. Versace

Versace has established recognition due to its Italian grandeur and luxury goods, accessories, fragrances, and for an outstanding range of magnificent lifestyle for men and women. It has worked on the products that other fashion brands did not and has its boutiques spread in Italy, Milan, New York City, and across the world.

3. Gucci

Gucci luxury clothing and accessories rule the hearts of fashion fanatics. It is also one of the most influential fashion brands that is known for setting new trends always.

2. Christian Dior

The most prestigious Paris couture house Christian Dior is the well reputed fashion brand leading chiefly in accessories and fragrances both for men and women. It also includes a wide range of hand bags and cosmetics. The increasing popularity of fashion label motivated a singer to release a song on the brand in 2006, entitled, “Christian Dior”.

1. Emporio Armani

Loved by Hollywood celebrities, fashion models and socialites and the inspiration of all emerging fashion brands is the super famous fashion house, the Emporio Armani. The brand is a trademark for men and women apparel & accessories, that includes T-shirts, Shirts, Trousers, Tops, Skirts, Jackets, Outerwear, Knitwear, Underwear, Jackets, Bags, Jewellery, Belts, Fragrance, Shoes, Sunglasses, Small leather goods, Watches and many more.

Top 10 Most Natural Disasters of 2011

Since the beginning earth is having changes in weather conditions. And when it gets to its extreme, it causes a disaster. That disaster ruins the lives of the affected people. It cannot be stopped completely, but it can be prevented or avoided. Technology has been developed so far to predict the forthcoming natural disaster and its intensity to the possible accurate extent. But with all that prevention sometimes it so happens Mostly that everything gets finished in a minute’s time.
Each year in some parts of the world abrupt natural changes causes disaster, so in the year 2011 too, the world met floods, tornadoes, droughts, earthquakes and possibly every weather disaster that exists. Economies get badly affected by these disasters, but the misery is marked into the history.
Let’s have a look at the world’s most worst and Mostly natural disasters that inflicted in the year 2011.

10. Pakistan floods

On tenth place it’s the floods in Pakistan. Due to heavy monsoon rainfalls, flooding started from 11th August covering areas of Southern Punjab, Sindh and South-West Baluchistan. It caused death of 412 people making 1172 injuries and additionally affected 8.2 million people. Damaged lands were 7.987 million acres and destroyed crops were 2.3 million acres.

9. Rio de Janeiro floods, Brazil

Ninth place is for the floods that occurred in Brazil. Heavy rains in Brazil caused flooding and on 11th January massive mudslides and floods in the Mountainous Region of the state of Rio de Janeiro rendered 23000 homeless. For recovering the damages, officials made an estimate of at least $1.2 billion. In 24 hours 144mm of rains were recorded in the city of Teresópolis, which was greater than the average rainfall of January.

8. Turkey earthquake

An earthquake with the magnitude 7.1 hit eastern Turkey on 23rd October and it was followed by more than 200 shocks. Over 2000 buildings were destroyed in Van and Ercis cities’. It claimed almost 600 peoples’ lives. On 9th November another earthquake was experienced which took away 38 lives and collapsed 25 buildings.

7. North Australian floods

Seventh number is given to the North Australian floods, which were the result of the storms that started in December 2010 and continued till January 2011, mainly targeting the state of Queensland. 11900 houses, infrastructure and crops had worse damages. Death causality was of 35 people. The speculated damages by economists are about $30 billion. In December 2011, Australia is still having winds of 130 kilometer per hour with torrential rains from ex-Cyclone Grant.

6. New Zealand earthquakes

Earthquake with 6.3 magnitude striking 10 km outside Christchurch on 22nd February was experienced in New Zealand and it took away 182 lives. Canterbury Television building, Christchurch’s hospital, Cathedral, and provincial buildings were badly damaged. IMF estimated that $15 billion will be the required restoration cost, which is more than the burden due to Kobe and Chile’s quake in 1995 and 2010 respectively. On 13th June an earth quake of 6.4 magnitudes was followed which injured 40 people and on 23rd December an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8 was experienced, no serious injuries were reported for that quake.

5. Thailand floods

The position as five is given to the floods which Thailand experienced that started from 31st of July and persisted till December. More than 5th of the nation’s population got affected by extensive flooding. The death toll exceeded 600. Still 15 provinces are flooded. World Bank estimated the damage cost to be $45 billion and the rehabilitation will need $25 billion. Due to this heavy flooding Thailand’s tourism is expected to have a great loss of $520-$825 million. Hard drive industry got severely damaged which could lead to the 10% worldwide increase in the price of the hard drives.

4. US tornado breakout

In 2011 United States witnessed various weather disasters which resulted in damages of about $1 billion and causality of 600 deaths. Mainly affected area included Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri, North California and Tennessee. 362 tornados were experienced just from 25th – 27th April, which killed almost 350 people in Alabama and 6 other states. An EF5 with a speed of 175 miles per hour, the tornado in Alabama, came after the rainfall of winter and snow thus causing land to saturate and higher water levels in the river. Estimated losses were more than $10.2 billion. At Joplin, Missouri in May EF5 with winds that range from 190-198 miles per hour, causing almost 160 deaths and approximate damages of $3 billion.

3. Typhoon (tropical storm) Washi, Philippines

On December 19th a storm with the wind speed of 45-55miles per hour hit Mindanao in southern Philippines and affected 167,000 people. It was followed by a down pour causing landslides and flashy floods. Washi claimed approximately 1500 lives and 338,000 people in 259 villages got displaced and a total of 10,345 houses got damaged.

2. East Africa drought

Second rank is assigned to the drought in East Africa since mid of July 2011 including Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Somalia and Djibouti. Livestock killed and crops got destroyed due to the scarcity of rains. UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that about 13.3 million people are in dire need of assistance and support. Killing more than 100 children in a day, in some areas the current drought is reported to be the worst drought in over 60 years.

1. Tohoko earthquake, Japan

The massive damaged caused by the Tohoko earthquake which hit Japan on March 11th and killed almost 16000 people. It is the largest earth quake in Japan’s history with a magnitude 9.0 and is regarded as one of the 5 most powerful and devastating earthquake in the world. Coastal communities and thousands of homes got wiped by 23 feet tsunami and 100s of aftershocks. It also ended the power lines. It resulted in the worrisome explosion in Fukushima nuclear power plant. Nuclear safety agency of Japan reported that reactor radiation increased up to 1000 times whereas some seeped out. Authorities say that damage decommissioning and leaking of Fukushima plant will take more 3 or 4 decades

Top 10 Dog Breeds in the World

It is often said that a dog is a man’s best friend. In many regards this statement is true and it excellent represents the bonding between man and animal. The most loyal of all pets, dogs if properly cared for can turn out to be the best helper a man may ever require. Listed below are the top 10 dog breeds in the world.

10.Australian Cattle dog:

Originally used for herding cattle in Australia, the Australian cattle dog in one of the most smartest and active dogs in the entire world. A perfect example of stamina and endurance, the Australian cattle dog has a great pair of watchful eyes.

The ability to sense danger from a very long distance and the protective nature for their property, these dogs are the perfect dogs if you want a dog which is active as well as a protector of your property.

9. Rottweiler:

Used primarily as watch dogs  and guard dogs by cops and officers, the Rottweiler ranges from medium to large in size. Adding courage to intelligence, the Rottweiler is an amazing dog. Thought it has a fearsome reputation but this isn’t entirely true.

A Rottweiler isn’t all about intensity but it is also about friendship and above all the ultimate protector of one’s property.

8. Papillon:

Many people find this dog cute and harmless and the cutest thing ever; however, what they should worry about is the aggressive nature of the Papillion. Look at their nature it can be clearly understood that these dogs are very loyal to their masters and are very possessive about their properties.

Looking at this aspect of the dog’s nature, there is no doubt that the Papillion is one of the most affectionate dogs in the world.

7. Labrador Retriever:

The most popular dog breed in the United States and one of the most popular breeds in the world, The Labrador Retriever is a very loving and caring dog. If your looking for a perfect family pet, there is no doubt that Labrador is the dog for you.

The ability to get along well with people of all ages and even with other animals makes it one of the top dogs in the world and definitely the dog to buy if you’re looking for a family dog.

6. Shetland Sheepdog:

Without a doubt the most smartest dog in the world, the owners of these dogs  claim that they have human intelligence. Originally bred to herd hundreds of cattle with great vision and intelligence, the Shetland sheepdog has quickly become of the most loyal dogs in the entire world.

Though, they don’t up to strangers very easily, they are very faithful and friendly around their own families.

5. Doberman Pinscher:

Having a fearsome reputation, Doberman is a short but well-built dog with a lot of stamina and a lot of strength. One of the best guard dogs in the world, the Doberman could also be turned to a family dog if properly trained from an early age. Fearless and loyal, these dogs vary greatly as far as temperament is concerned.

But one thing is for certain on a bad day, a Doberman is a very vicious dog to come across.

4. Golden Retriever:

There can be no doubt that Golden Retriever is the most popular dog in the entire world. The Golden Retriever personifies every perfect thing a dog can have, whether it is loyalty, friendship and even affection; this dog has it all. Amongst the most intelligent dogs in the world, these dogs can be trained to do anything.

There is no surprise that these dogs are the ones which normally win all sorts of intellect and trick competitions of dogs that are held.

3. German Shepherd:

Among the best guard dogs in the world, the German shepherd is a very courageous, active and intelligent creature. If trained properly from an early age, the dog can be a great family dog, be good with the kids and be very loyal as well.

Their intelligence is almost unmatched when it comes to dogs and other animals, so much so that they need a purpose in life to live, just like humans.

2. Poodle:

Normally considered as show dogs, this is a dog of great intelligence and is the example of elegance at its best. The standard poodle is very friendly and loves to be around people and is enjoyed by children as well as adults.

One of the easier breeds to train, the Poodle can even be trained to be a hunter. Being a happy and sensitive breed, the Poodle is number 2 in our list.

1. Border Collie:

One of the most active dog breeds, the Border collie is a dog that needs constant exercise. The worst thing to do with a Collie is to leave him home alone, if that happens then you can expect to go back home to see it destroyed and ruined. Among other things the most impressive attribute of these dogs is their intelligence, which has a legendary status when it comes to agility and obedience.

So if you’re living in the city an don’t have enough time to spend with your dog then collie is definitely not the dog for you, as It requires constant praise and exercise from its owners.

Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs of 2011 in the USA

10. Lawyers
Pay: $110,590

The welfare and proper functioning of a society greatly depends on its legal system, and lawyers are an important part of it. So it is no shock that this job is in this list. In order to become a lawyer, you need a Bachelor’s Degree in Pre-Law, Political Science or History, which spans 2 to 3 years.
9. Airline Pilots
Pay: $111,680

Well, who doesn’t want to be a pilot?! Becoming a pilot is not an easy task as it requires a lot of professional commitment. You are required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation and a pilot’s license.
8. Air Traffic Controllers
Pay: $111,870

Air Traffic Controllers are the people who make sure that air traffic keeps going smoothly and safely. They have to ensure that aircrafts keep a safe distance apart. To become an Air Traffic Controller, you need an Associates or a Bachelor’s in program of study through the FAA’s (Federal Aviation Administration) Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
7. Computer and Information Systems Managers
Pay: $112,210

These are the professionals who take care of the implementation and administration of technology of an organisation. You are required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Science, or Management Information Systems or even a Master’s of Business Administration in order to become a Computer and information systems manager.
6. Natural Science Managers
Pay: $112,800

The job of a Natural Science Manager is to direct research and development projects and to coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production. For becoming a natural science manager, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Science or a Master’s degree in Business Administration.
5. Podiatrists
Pay: $113,560

Podiatrists are also known as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs). These are the people who diagnose and treat disorders, diseases and injuries of foot and lower legs. For becoming a Podiatrist, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Science or have to attend a medical school for four years.
4. Engineering Managers
Pay: $115,270

Engineering Managers are the people who supervise the people who design and develope machinery, products, systems, and processes. In order to become an Engineering Manager, a Bachelor’s in Engineering or a Master’s of Business Administration is required.
3. Dentists
Pay: $142,870

As we all know, Dentists are the people who diagnose and treat problems related to teeth and tissues of the mouth. They also advise and administer care for helping in preventing any future problems. You are require to have a Bachelor’s in Science with 2 years of Pre-Dental education or have to attend a dental school for 4 years to become a dentist. Dental Admissions Test (DAT) is a must too.
2. Chief Executive Officers
Pay: $158,560

Chief Executive Officers, commonly known as the CEOs, are the people who help various organisations achieve certain goals by formulating strategies and policies. You need a Bachelor’s degree in Business or Marketing, or a Master’s in Business Administration.
1. Physicians and Surgeons
Pay: $166,400

Physicians and Surgeons are the people who diagnose illnesses and treat diseases. To become one, a Bachelor’s in Science (Biology or Chemistry) or attending medical school for four years is required. MCAT is the test which is a must for consideration, 3 to 8 years of Internship/Residency.