What at read, absolutely fascinating. The scientists that figure all that out are beyond belief, as is the process of evolution that creates the critters and their behavior. You’re going to love the new book ‘An Immense World” we chatted about on the hike, right up your alley.
I find this somewhat disturbing, but nowhere near as disturbing as the animals that "zombify" other animals, such as the Gordian worm or ichneumon wasp. These might be something to look up on an empty stomach, especially the Gordian worm.
They are fascinating, aren't they?! I'm wondering about the dead comrade - why would they carry him? Do they take him back to the home nest to bury? Or was he perhaps wounded and not dead, and if so, would they nurture him back to health?
Something else I found out but didn't include in the piece, is that most of the workers are female. The males just supply sperm to the queen and only live about a week or so - the workers, including the slaves, live 1-3 years...
What at read, absolutely fascinating. The scientists that figure all that out are beyond belief, as is the process of evolution that creates the critters and their behavior. You’re going to love the new book ‘An Immense World” we chatted about on the hike, right up your alley.
I can’t wait to read it!
Love this! Found you on Affirmation Chickens. Which I love!
I love Affirmation Chickens too! Glad you like it!
I find this somewhat disturbing, but nowhere near as disturbing as the animals that "zombify" other animals, such as the Gordian worm or ichneumon wasp. These might be something to look up on an empty stomach, especially the Gordian worm.
As usual, you give me lots to think about, Melanie! This is definitely a rabbit hole I want to dive down. But thanks for the empty stomach warning...
They are fascinating, aren't they?! I'm wondering about the dead comrade - why would they carry him? Do they take him back to the home nest to bury? Or was he perhaps wounded and not dead, and if so, would they nurture him back to health?
Something else I found out but didn't include in the piece, is that most of the workers are female. The males just supply sperm to the queen and only live about a week or so - the workers, including the slaves, live 1-3 years...