Abstract
This chapter discusses a laboratory study of foraging behavior of ants. The foraging decisions of many species seem to be based on maximizing energy intake per unit of time. However, acquisition of essential nutrients and/or consumption of a varied diet may also be important, as may risk of being preyed on while feeding. Competitive interactions with other foragers may hinder access to preferred foods, or cooperative communication between foragers may facilitate access. In a typical ant colony, most of the individuals are sterile female workers; often there is just one fertile queen, whose primary activity is laying eggs. The workers collect food for the colony; feed their mother, the queen, and feed and care for their young siblings; enlarge the colony as needed; and defend the colony. Ant colonies generally contain tens to thousands of workers (depending on the species).
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