Twigs in leaf litter: overlap in twig size occupation by nesting ants

摘要: Twigs in leaf litter represent an important nesting resource for ant colonies. Twig diameter strongly influences the occupation of twigs by ants, possibly determining size Given that uncolonized are common litter, we tested hypothesis species occupy with a similar (i.e., use overlap). In addition, expected colony at assemblage and levels were related to twig because may hinder nest occupation. We analyzed all present 112 4 × 4 m plots, summing 1792 m2 16 Atlantic Forest sites. separated occupied counted number individuals, measured diameter. recorded 701 28 species. At level, detected four classes, preference between 11.5 16.1 mm Assemblage-wide, found significant relation size. many did not show relationship size, suggesting drive general selecting different classes.