Specific patterns of excavation in isolated ants

Abstract

The tunnels dug by isolated worker ants [Myrmica ruginodis Nylander, M. scabrinodis Nylander, Formica lemani Bondroit, F. fusca L. and Lasius niger (L.)] have been studied photographically. Although there was much variation within species, certain interspecific differences in tunnel shape appeared. The tunnels of L. niger are more spreading, longer and more convoluted than those of the other species, and often branch beneath the surface. The tunnels of M. scabrinodis show the same features to a smaller degree. The tunnels of F. fusca and F. lemani are straight, unbranched and vertical. © 1970 Masson & Cie.