As social insects, ants are particularly dependent on optimizing their communication in order to ward off enemies and to recognize individuals from their own colony. They must also protect themselves against desiccation. Their bodies are covered with wax-like substances known as cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) that serve both purposes—communication and protection against desiccation.
Click here for original story, Melting properties determine the biological functions of the cuticular hydrocarbon layer of ants
Source: Phys.org