Foraging diversity in Brazilian Ponerinae ants: a comprehensive systematic review

This chapter provides a systematic review of the foraging behaviours of Brazilian ants in the subfamily Ponerinae, synthesizing over six decades of research. Ponerinae ants exhibit diverse foraging strategies, ranging from solitary foraging to mass group raids, and occupy varied ecological niches, from omnivory to highly specialist predation. Despite their biological and ecological importance, research has focused predominantly on a few genera, such as Neoponera, Odontomachus, Dinoponera, and Pachycondyla, leaving significant knowledge gaps for smaller, cryptic, or nocturnal genera. Using PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review analyzed 110 studies covering 65 species from 13 genera, identifying biases in research focus and methodological approaches. The results underscore the evolutionary and ecological adaptations of Ponerinae ants, such as their recruitment strategies, prey specialization, and chemical communication. These findings highlight their potential as models for studying social behaviour, phenotypic plasticity, and ecological interactions. However, most genera remain understudied, limiting comprehensive understanding. This review calls for expanded research efforts on neglected genera using modern tools like automated behavioural tracking and interdisciplinary collaboration. Such approaches can bridge existing gaps and deepen insights into the evolutionary dynamics of ant foraging behaviour. Additionally, it emphasizes the applied relevance of studying Ponerinae ants, from biological pest control to forensic science, showcasing their broader scientific and economic significance.