Question
i have +/- 2mm black ants in my pine trees. the bark seems to be falling off. remedy? i live in nw new mexico elev 5500'

Answer
The ants are not attacking your treee but are feeding on other insects under the bark more than likely aphids type. Their searching is and will knock some of the bark off. I would spray the trunk as high as you can with an insectcide for ants. Check with your local garden type store for an insecticide for ants.