Book Description

This study examines how foraging behavior of Camponotus pennsylvanicus varies dependingupon social densities. The two nest areas had a four-fold size difference. Additionally, we studied foragerfood preference for sucrose solution, protein, or water and whether changes in density would influencepreference. Our results showed heightened foraging activity under higher social density. Increasedforaging behavior could be explained by an increase in the frequency of worker interactions. Furthermore,the ants significantly preferred the sucrose solution to the protein source. Compared to protein, ants hadmore visits and spent more time at the sucrose solution. Water feeding events were marginal and notconsidered relevant to this study. Social density did not influence food preference. Findings from thisstudy provide insight into understanding the functioning and adaptability of animal societies.