Perception of Carbon Dioxide and Other 'Air-Condition' Parameters in the Leaf Cutting ant Atta cephalotes

摘要

Social insects often build subterranean nests to protect themselves and their brood from predators and environmental influences. These nests can reach remarkable sizes, covering an area of up to 40 m~2 and reaching 6 m below the surface. The fungus gardening leaf cutting ants (genus Atta) have special demands for their nests, including stable microclimatic conditions required by the fungus. The climatic parameters, such as humidity, temperature, and the concentration of CO_2, have direct impact on the development of the brood and on the fitness of the whole colony . The ants appear to be able to regulate these conditions by constructing and, when needed, altering ventilation channels, which are an important part of the nest.