Ant and termite collective behavior: group-level similarity arising from individual-level diversity

Nobuaki Mizumoto*, Chris R. Reid

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Animal collective behavior produces group-level patterns that emerge from individual-level interactions among members. Such sophisticated behavioral coordination can be observed across various taxa, indicating evolutionary convergence. Among the most striking examples are two social insect lineages: ants and termites. Ants and termites evolved socially independently, inhabit terrestrial and subterranean environments, and face a similar collective task of maintaining their colonies with many individuals. This results in the convergent evolution of collective phenomena, such as constructing complex nest structures or movement coordination based on chemical and tactile cues. However, although the striking similarity attracts the most attention, little research has focused on how ants and termites differ in collective behaviors at individual and group levels. Here, we review the similarities and distinctions of collective behaviors in ants and termites. Even with similarities in group-level patterns, rich diversity exists in mechanisms of behavioral coordination and the functions of collective patterns. Comparative analysis of collective behavior is challenging, but recent advances in automatic movement tracking methodologies have greatly expanded the potential for generating further insights. Finally, we conclude that comparative collective behavioral analysis can enhance our ability to understand biodiversity and provide alternative solutions for collective problem-solving in many fields.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)646-658
Number of pages13
JournalEcological Research
Volume39
Issue number5
Early online date23 Jul 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2024

Bibliographical note

FCopyright the Author(s) 2024. Version archived for private and non-commercial use with the permission of the author/s and according to publisher conditions. For further rights please contact the publisher.

Keywords

  • comparative analysis
  • convergent evolution
  • eusociality
  • self-organization
  • social insects

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