As social insects, like bees or wasps, ants operate within complex societies working toward common goals, such as caring for the young, collecting and storing food, and protecting their colonies from harm. Ant Behavior uses evolution as a lens for understanding ant sociality. This comprehensive book covers all aspects of ant behavior and society, including ant colony structure, nest architecture, reproductive competition, communication and conflict within the colony, division of labor and caste systems. It also demonstrates that an ant colony is not just a society, but actually acts as a single “superorganism” and behaves collectively as if with a one mind.

Incorporating the latest research and most up-to-date knowledge, Ant Behavior is a must-have resource for students and researchers in entomology and zoology, especially those interested in social insects and evolutionary biology.

• Uses evolution as a lens for understanding ant social behavior
• Covers all aspects of ant societies, from nest architecture to mating behaviors and beyond
• Includes definitions of key terms, chapter summaries, and case studies to aid in understanding