Publications by authors named "Sulisay Phonekeo"
In the aftermath of a flood, fire ants, , cluster into temporary encampments. The encampments can contain hundreds of thousands of ants and reach over 30 ants high. How do ants build such tall structures without being crushed? In this combined experimental and theoretical study, we investigate the shape and rate of construction of ant towers around a central support.
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- Fire ants can form structures like rafts and bridges, but these are vulnerable to disturbances such as water currents.
- This study examines how ant groups self-heal when pressed together, revealing that larger groups show a decrease in individual contribution—similar to social loafing seen in humans and cattle.
- Using simulations and mathematical models, the researchers demonstrate that ants adapt to this phenomenon by creating more links over time, which could inform future innovations in self-healing materials.