Project:

The Impact of Food Availability on Ant Species in Fields vs. Suburban Areas

Students:

Megan McCarthy, Alessia Rosselli, Gwen Perez

School:

St. Dominic High School, Nassau

Mentors:

Pamela Shanley

Abstract:

Ecologically, ants are important organisms whose distribution and behavior are influenced by food availability. In suburban areas, human activity introduces processed food sources that are typically absent in fields. This study examines the impact of food availability on ant species’ diversity and diet preferences in a field versus a suburban park. Ant populations will be observed and sampled using standardized food baits. Each trap will specifically contain either a sweet, protein, or fatty bait that is placed in two different environments. Each type of food will demonstrate a processed and natural version. This will allow the number of ants, species diversity, and food preferences to be compared. The findings of this research may provide insight into how human food availability influences the community structure, species richness, and behavior of ants.

Poster:

Team samples:

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