Determination of Atta texana nest structures and subsurface soil properties using ground penetrating radar

We present experimental results for the use of ground penetrating radar (GPR) as a tool for modeling the subsurface structure of Atta texana nests in Central Louisiana. The sandy soil habitat was well-suited to GPR, and we were able to model anomalies up to four meters below the surface with a 400MHz antenna system. Two nests in Kisatchie National Forest and Anacoco were scanned in a 10m square grid. After modeling the subsurface, each nest was excavated and GPR models were validated with measurement by hand. The data suggested that GPR may be a reliable technique when voluminous plant matter and buried debris are not prevalent in the scan area. The ability to measure water content and other soil properties in the subsurface associated with the nests were also discussed.