Saving the Galápagos ants: A pioneering project
There are currently no insect species on the Galápagos Islands that are under special protection. However, several endemic insect species are native to the islands, including various species of carpenter ants. They are only found on the Galápagos Islands. Their protection and research into their biology are crucial to preserving the unique biodiversity of the islands. The “Galápagos Ant Project” is a pioneering research project dedicated to this important task.
Under the leadership of Dr. Henri Herrera, an international team of researchers is investigating the biology and evolution of both endemic and invasive carpenter ants on the Galápagos. The researchers want to create a comprehensive picture of these ant species by collecting ecological, genetic and morphological data and then combining them. The project aims to investigate the genetic and visual differences between the various ant populations and derive measures for their protection.
Background
New findings show that geographical barriers such as mountains, the sea or lava flows on the Galápagos Islands promote genetic diversification, i.e. the splitting of a lineage to occupy ecological niches, which can lead to the emergence of new species. While many studies have investigated the diversification of animals such as giant tortoises, lizards and snails, the evolution of insects, especially ants, remains largely unexplored.
Carpenter ants of the genus Camponotusplay an important role in the islands' ecosystem, but their ecology and behavior are poorly documented.
The ant species Camponotus planus and Camponotus macilentus living on the Galápagos are ant species belonging to the genus of horse ants, which are known for their impressive size and conspicuous behavior.
Camponotus planus, also known as the flat horse ant, lives mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. They often build their nests in dead trees or in damp soil. The ants are diurnal and feed on nectar, plant sap and small insects.
Photo © Henri Herrera, CDF
Camponotus macilentus, also known as the slender horse ant, is found in similar habitats, but prefers dry and warm areas. Their nests are usually found under stones or in dry pieces of wood. The ants are also diurnal and feed in a similar way to Camponotus planus.
Photo © Henri Herrera, CDF
Both ant species play an important role in the ecosystem of the Galápagos Islands as they pollinate plants and control pests. They are fascinating examples of the diversity and adaptability of the ant world.
Project aims
1. to study the biology of endemic and invasive carpenter ants: The project mainly studies two endemic species (Camponotus planus and Camponotus macilentus) and one invasive species (Camponotus zonatus). The aim is to understand the distribution, behavior and ecological interactions of these species.
Nest of Camponotus zonatus © Henri Herrera, CDF
2. genetic analyses: by sequencing the genomes of different ant populations, the genetic differences and adaptations of the ants to the different island environments will be investigated.
3. morphological studies: extensive morphological data will also be collected to document the physical differences between the ant species and populations.
Preliminary results of the project already show that endemic carpenter ants are increasingly being displaced by invasive species. This is particularly worrying as the native ant species often live in narrow ecological niches and have important interactions with the local flora and fauna.
The importance of the project
This research project is the first of its kind to focus on the neotropics and island ecosystems. The data obtained will be crucial to protect the endemic ants of the Galápagos Islands and preserve their ecosystem functions. The project will also provide valuable information for conservation authorities to develop and implement targeted conservation measures.
Support
The “Galápagos Ants Project” needs funding to achieve its ambitious goals. The field work and comprehensive genetic analyses require considerable resources. Your donations will go directly towards conducting expeditions, genetic sequencing and analyzing the data. Every contribution helps to protect the unique ant species of the Galápagos Islands and thus preserve an important part of the global natural heritage.
With your support it is possible
- to undertake expeditions to other islands to find previously undiscovered populations and document their ecological interactions.
- to use genomic analyses, as sequencing and analyzing genomes is important to study the genetic differences and adaptations of ants.
- to conduct ecological studies to more fully investigate the interactions between ants and native flora and fauna.
Combining modern techniques of landscape and population genetics with traditional ecological and morphological studies, this project will provide crucial data for the conservation of ants and the entire ecosystem of the Galápagos Islands. These findings will enable the nature conservation authorities to develop and implement targeted and effective conservation measures.
The “Galápagos Ant Project” is a pioneering research project that for the first time comprehensively investigates the genetic and ecological diversity of carpenter ants on the Galápagos Islands. It provides valuable data for nature conservation and helps to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands. With your support, this project can make a significant contribution to the protection of endangered insect species and preserve the biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands.
Help us to secure the future of the Galápagos ants!
