Sick Ants Isolate Themselves to Protect the Colony, Study Finds

New research reveals that sick ants act to protect their nestmates by changing their behavior before death. Scientists describe ant colonies as a "super-organism," where the survival of the group is the priority. When infected with a deadly fungus, ants leave the colony's crowded areas. They also stop all social interaction. This self-isolation reduces the risk of spreading infection. Furthermore, some sick ants move permanently outside the nest to die. This final act removes the threat of contagion entirely from the colony. Researchers conclude these behaviors show a form of social immunity. The sacrifice of sick individuals helps ensure the survival of the entire group.