Foraging behavior of tagged rock ants (Temnothorax rugatulus)

Technological advances continue to push the boundaries of scientific
inquiry in animal behavior. One such development is the emergence of
automated tracking systems, which enable the collection of high-resolution
spatio-temporal information for animals. Although tag-based tracking
systems provide valuable insights into animal movement and collective
behavior, the attachment of devices can have detrimental effects in some
cases. Here, we investigated the effects of recently developed miniature
tracking tags using the rock ant, Temnothorax rugatulus, as a
model system. To do so, we compared the foraging activities of tagged ants
and untagged ants (who lost their tags) within initially fully-tagged
colonies. Additionally, we compared the foraging activities of these
initially fully-tagged colonies with those of no-tag control colonies (no
one was tagged). We found that tags did not significantly reduce
individual activity, with tagged ants visiting the food source as
frequently as untagged ants within initially fully-tagged colonies.
However, our analysis revealed a marked difference in recruitment
behavior—tagged ants were less likely to participate in tandem runs than
untagged ants. Furthermore, the number of tandem runs was higher for the
no-tag control colonies than the initially fully-tagged colonies, in which
69–95% of colony members had tags. Our data suggest, for the first time,
that tracking tags can negatively impact ant behavior. Although tracking
devices are powerful tools for understanding complex behavioral patterns,
it is crucial to carefully consider their potential impact on animal
behavior to ensure accurate conclusions.