4 replies to this topic

[AntsTexas]

like S. invicta...

 

 

[ctantkeeper]

adding extra entrances allows for better ventilation, preventing the ants from suffocating or over heating from the carbon dioxide / heat they produce. the mounds are also used to incubate pupae and pre - pupal larvae, allowing them to develop faster. when the temp. rises above ground, the ants occupying the hollow mound retreat to the underground portion of the nest to prevent overheating.

[AntsTexas]

cool, thanks great info!!

[drtrmiller]

As the picture shows, these types of mounds are typically found around atypical geography, structures, or soil types, in this case, a sidewalk.

 

Most all the mounds found in open areas are dome-shaped, since their evolutionary purpose is to be a solar collector, quickly heating the nest in the mornings, where workers will act as tiny radiators throughout the day, traveling between the warmer and cooler areas of the nest to thermoregulate it precisely for optimal brood development.  On cool spring mornings, even the queen will often travel to the upper dome.

Edited by drtrmiller, August 18 2015 - 7:05 PM.

[AntsTexas]

cool, i noticed that hotter/nicer weather lets all move upstairs,  cooler weather lets all move downstairs...

Edited by AntsTexas, August 19 2015 - 5:22 AM.