Research from UCLA reveals surprising foraging behavior in starving Argentine ants (Linepithema humile), known for their aggressive pursuit of food. Contrary to expectations, when deprived of food, these ants become more cautious in their foraging activities, especially in the presence of competitors. This strategy may enhance the survival and effectiveness of their colonies despite the immediate risks of starvation. The study involved controlled experiments where ants were either fed normally or deprived of carbohydrates or protein, simulating high-risk environments through formic acid, a competitive signal.
While starving ants displayed increased foraging for carbohydrates when risks were low, they showed significant restraint in high-risk settings, suggesting a prioritization of colony survival over immediate food acquisition. This behavior challenges the asset-protection principle, proposing instead the state-dependent safety hypothesis, which posits that well-nourished ants can take more risks because of their better chances of survival. The findings provide valuable insight into the foraging decisions of ants and could inform strategies for managing Argentine ant populations, which pose agricultural threats in California and beyond. The research, led by Bryce Barbee and Noa Pinter-Wollman, was published in Current Zoology.
