The National Science Foundation Division of Emerging Frontiers awarded Harvey Mudd College $363,004 on January 1, 2027, under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to investigate chemical communication between native harvester ants and invasive Argentine ants.
The project tests whether harvester ant colonies detect and respond to chemical cues produced by Argentine ants by altering foraging behavior or nest entrance activity to avoid raids. Harvester ants have been displaced by Argentine ants across California and the Southeastern United States, with ecological consequences for plant communities that depend on seed dispersal by harvester ants. The research will examine direct behavioral interactions between the species, which remain poorly understood, to inform protective strategies for native harvester ant populations.
Work is performed in Claremont, California through December 31, 2029. The award supports fundamental research aligned with NSF priorities regarding chemical communication and biotechnology applications.