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Distribution of brood of the acorn ant Temnothorax crassispinus in artificial nests after forced migration.

Authors :
Mitrus S
Source :
Behavioural processes [Behav Processes] 2024 Aug; Vol. 220, pp. 105077. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Jul 08.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Nest sites are important for social insects, as they provide refuge against enemies and ensure optimal conditions for the brood development. In large nests, the different chambers can be used for different reasons; for example, for food storage or as a brood chamber. Acorn ants from the genus Temnothorax dwell in small cavities in acorns and wood; however, even such small chambers can have a high degree of spatial heterogeneity. During this study, the distribution of brood items of the acorn ant Temnothorax crassispinus inside artificial nest cavities composed of three chambers in a linear system was analysed. 29 ant colonies were photographed 13 times during a period of approximately one month: during three consecutive days, and after forced migrations. I found that the distribution of the brood inside the nest cavity was similar during the consecutive days; however, after the forced migration, the distribution typically changed. Almost all the brood items were kept farther from the entrance. Keeping the brood farther from the entrance could be explained as a safer option.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1872-8308
Volume :
220
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Behavioural processes
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
38986727
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105077