Project:

An Investigation of Ant Migration to Novel Sites

Students:

Jun Chen (Jason) Qian, Shi Yue (Serena) Zhou, Salsabeel Ajibade-Taofeeq, Yeowen (Ellen) Hong, Eshel Kim

School:

Stony Brook School, Suffolk

Mentors:

Danielle Davey

Abstract:

One of the most abundant animals in the world, ants play a significant role in organic waste decomposition, soil nutrition, plant health, and seed dispersal. We assessed differences in ant biodiversity between areas near old and new buildings. The purpose of this study is to study how ant colonies migrate to new areas. A pitfall trap will be used to attract ants. In this study, the authors hypothesize that ant biodiversity will be relatively lower in areas near old buildings than in new buildings resulting from competition over land. (waiting results)