Entomology
Researchers have discovered that terminally ill ant pupae release a distinctive scent to alert their colony, prompting workers to disinfect them and prevent infection spread. This altruistic behavior sacrifices the individual but safeguards the superorganism-like colony. The findings highlight parallels between ant societies and multicellular organisms.
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New research reveals that bumble bees often prevail in direct confrontations with invasive Argentine ants at feeding sites, but these encounters lead to prolonged aggression that reduces their food collection. This added pressure exacerbates challenges for bumble bee colonies already facing habitat loss, diseases, and pesticides. The study highlights how such interactions could impact these vital pollinators.