Computer image analysis provides new observations of ant behaviour patterns

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Abstract
We investigate computer image analysis to provide a new and objective measure of the spatial distribution of activity inside ant nests. The distribution of activity is dependent on the nest architecture, and changes when ants are allowed to construct their own nests. Nests show greatest activity around the periphery of the brood pile, usually with one or few foci. The spatial distribution of behaviour may be important to the social structure of the colony. By analysing the spatial pattern around the brood on a finer scale, we show that larger brood items are located in areas of greater activity. This could support a simple behavioural algorithm for allocation of brood care.