It has been shown that rate of invasion and local abundance of the worldwide, abundant, and ecologically damaging ant species, Linepithema humile (Argentine ant) is strongly affected by soil moisture. We used a novel non-invasive technique modulating the spiracular conductance by gas composition, which allowed us to measure and discern between respiratory and cuticular water loss. The results show the Argentine ant as a highly prone species to desiccation compared to other ant species.
Species 1: Hymenoptera Formicidae Linepithema humile (Argentine ant)
Species 2: Hymenoptera Formicidae Forelius mccooki
Species 3: Hymenoptera Formicidae Dorymyrmex insanus
Keywords: water loss, novel technique
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