Florida Carpenter Ants Perform Life-Saving Amputations on Injured Nestmates, Study Finds
July 3, 2024A study published in Current Biology highlights the unique medical care provided by Florida carpenter ants to their injured nestmates.
These ants can selectively treat wounds through cleaning or amputation, a behavior not seen in other animal species.
The ants' decision-making is based on the type of injury and infection risk, with amputations being more effective for infected wounds.
Researchers suggest this behavior demonstrates a high level of cooperation and care within ant colonies, akin to human medical systems.
Ongoing experiments aim to explore similar behaviors in other ant species and understand the instinctive precision of their care.
The study underscores the intricate and sophisticated methods ants use to respond to injuries and provide life-saving assistance within their colonies.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • Jul 2, 2024
Videos Show Ants Amputating Nest Mates’ Legs to Save Their LivesThe Guardian • Jul 2, 2024
Ants can carry out life-saving amputations on injured nest mates, study showsNature • Jul 2, 2024
Ants amputate their nest mates’ legs to save livesYahoo News • Jul 2, 2024
Ants perform limb amputations on injured comrades to save their lives