The Fascinating World of Ants: A Guide to Common Ant Species" Ants are a fascinating group of insects with over 12,000 known species worldwide. Here are six common types: Carpenter Ants - large, can chew through wood, found indoors and outdoors. Fire Ants - painful stings, build large mounds, found in warm climates. Argentine Ants - invasive, form large colonies, found both indoors and outdoors. Odorous House Ants - distinctive odor, found throughout the United States. Leafcutter Ants - strip plants of leaves, create fungus, found in Central and South America. Bullet Ants - extremely painful sting, found in Central and South America. Ants are endlessly fascinating, providing wonder for both casual observers and entomologists alike.