Our studies concerning ants focuses on the genus
Solenopsis or "fire ant" and has been primarily concerned with the
imported species. However, studies have and are continuing to include
a number of other genera. The myrmecology project is more goal oriented
than the other projects and much of the research is directed towards the
development of new management strategies for the Imported Fire Ant (IFA)
through a more through knowledge of the biology of this genera.
Much of the research over the last 20 years has
involved the recognition of, movement of, and distribution of food in IFA
colonies; the behavior of fire ants and the role of several pheromones
in their biology and physiological studies. Studies have included muscle
histolysis following flight, the polygynous form of the fire ant, and the
interactions between fire ants and other insects, small mammals and plants.
We have also tried to document some of the problems that fire ants cause.
For example, we demonstrated that fire ants are a problem in electrical
equipment. Research has also been conducted to determine the efficacy
of various control measures and we have conducted research evaluating both
chemical and biological approaches to IFA management. For example, we conducted
some of the early research to show that the insect growth regulators have
potential in IFA management.
Presently our program has expanded to include
ant surveys in Texas involving both native and exotic species. This information
is being used to develop a GIS/landscape ecology approach to distribution
and abundance as part of a management program in cooperation with Dr Coulson.
Another project focuses on native ants as IFA competitors and involves
identifying the more important competitors, keys to their identification,
distribution, and biology. The potential of parasites and diseases for
IFA management has focused on parasitoids of the genus Orasema, parasitic
stripsiptera, and the protozoan diseases "thelohania" and includes
the development of in vitro rearing methods. Genetic studies include
the construction of a large insert BAC library, the use of micro satellites
to examine relatedness and an examination of male sterility in cooperation
with Drs. L. Skow, S. Johnston, H. Price and S. Davis,. We are also investigating
the communication system of IFA`s that includes both chemical and vibrational
information.. Studies concerned with the impact of IFA`s on our ecosystem
include the competition between fire ants and other ants, insects, small
mammals, and plants (seeds). Several additional cooperative projects include
the development of digestive inhibitors with Dr. Myer and the control,
synthesis and ovarial absorption of vitellogenin with Dr. Keeley.
More details of these studies can be seen through the "Texas
IFA initiative" link.
References on ants by S.B. Vinson