Preliminary colony density estimates and spatial analyses of harvester ants at Rolling N LLP properties, Runnels County, Texas

• In Event: Poster Presentation and Judging for: Anthropology; Botany; Conservation Ecology; Environmental Science; Freshwater Science; Geosciences; Mathematics & Computer Science; Neuroscience; Physics & Eng; Science Education; Terrestrial Ecology & Management.
  In Poster Session: Terrestrial Ecology Poster Session

Abstract

Harvester ants are widespread and can be locally abundant in western North America. They are important in ecosystems because they can impact vegetation, soils, and other animals. Due to their granivory and nest construction, harvester ants denude vegetation, affect soil seed banks, and disrupt plant community structure. Harvester ant colonies have been identified over the course of three years at three sites on ranchland owned and operated by Rolling N LLP Properties. The ranch is a site undergoing native grassland restoration. The three sites include a monoculture site, a restored native grass site, and a mixed vegetation site. Estimates of colony density were compared among the three sites. Spatial analyses of ant colonies was performed. Ant colony density and spatial distribution patterns will impact grassland restoration efforts.

Authors

• Alexis Skiles, Hardin-Simmons University

• Alyssa Brooks, Hardin-Simmons University

• Kenneth Davis, Oregon Institute of Technology

• Rick L Hammer, Hardin-Simmons University

• Andrea B. Jensen, Hardin Simmons University