Local distortion of the earth's magnetic field as a proposal for handling the leafcutter ant species Atta spp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Abstract

Studies regarding the spatial orientation of social insects (bees, termites and ants) concerning their search for food, foraging and transporting it have received considerable attention during the last few years. Such studies have been aimed at learning so as to apply it to robotics (multiagents) and ecological pest control. However, little is known about the types of orientation mechanism and their integration in such insects. This article presents some geomagnetic field detection studies dealing with controlling them by magnetotaxis or orientation experiments in Sasaima (Cundinamarca) to formulate an ecological management proposal for ants from this species which greatly affect Colombian agriculture.