Title | The functional significance of cemented nest caps of the harvester ant, Pogonomyrmex maricopa |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2003 |
Authors | Whitford WG |
Journal | Journal of Arid Environments |
Volume | 53 |
Pagination | 281-284 |
Date Published | 2003 |
Accession Number | JRN00399 |
Call Number | 00806 |
ARIS Log Number | 150425 |
Keywords | ant nest, soil effects, ant, calcium carbonate, ant, harvester ant, ant, Pogonomyrmex, article, articles, calcium carbonate, ants, journal, journals, wind erosion, ants |
Abstract | Harvester ants, Pogonomyrmex maricopa, construct cemented caps on the sand mound nests in a fine sand dune area. The caps are approximately 60% calcium carbonate that is transported from the underlying calcium carbonate layers. The caps protect the nest structure from being eroded away during high-wind periods. Partial erosion of the cemented caps adds calcium carbonate to the sand dune soils. |
URL | files/bibliography/JRN00399.pdf |
DOI | 10.1006/jare.2002.1039 |