Dynamic networks in invasive
ant species
Social insects are highly ecologically successful,
with ants being among the most dominant groups worldwide. To explain this
widespread ecological success, we must understand how they organize their many
individual ants into effectively functioning colonies. In one striking form of
organization, some of the most dominant ant species spread each colony across
multiple social connected nests, a phenomenon called polydomy. All the major
invasive ant species have a polydomous nesting system, and polydomy is known to
affect foraging success through the formation of a network of nests, connected
by trails along which food can be transported. Previous studies of polydomy
have focused on static nest networks, while in reality polydomous species,
especially invasive ones, flourish in changeable and often unpredictable
environments. This project will address the lack of theoretical models of how
flexible networks are used to respond to environmental change, for example a
fluctuating food supply or challenge from competitors. The primary focus of
this project is theoretical modelling; however, there is scope for empirically
testing some model predictions on ant colonies in the laboratory or in the
field.
How to apply
This project is part of the NERC Doctoral Training
Partnership in Adapting to the Challenges of a Changing Environment (ACCE)
and will be co-supervised by Elva Robinson (Biology, University of
York), Kate Parr (Earth, Ocean & Ecological Sciences, Liverpool University)
and Dan Franks (Computer Science and Biology, University of York). The project
will start Oct 2015 and is competitively funded. UK/EU students only. For more
information about the project, ACCE and how to apply see: www.york.ac.uk/biology/postgraduate/nercdtp
Informal enquiries are welcome: Elva.Robinson@york.ac.uk