A study of the food preferences and feeding strategies of Tetramorium bicarinatum (Nylander) (Hymenoptera:Formicidae)

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the food preferences and feeding strategies of Tetramorium bicarinatum Nylander. The first objective was to determine if T. bicarinatum could distinguish between a high (10%) and low (1%) concentrations of sucrose solutions. The second objective was to determine a preferred food particle size for T. bicarinatum. The third objective was to find a preferred food source between protein, lipid, and carbohydrate enriched diet. The fourth objective was to determine if T. bicarinatum would switch food sources when a more desirable food source was discovered after having first fed on a less desired one. This species showed a distinct preference for the high concentration sucrose solution. Efficient foraging is possible when foods higher in energy can be preferentially collected. Tetramorium bicarinatum showed a preference for the largest particle size. Baits designed specifically for this species are not limited to small particle sizes. Protein-enriched bait was preferred. This type of food source is necessary for brood development. Tetramorium bicarinatum switched from the least preferred food source that was discovered first, to the most preferred that was discovered second. This has far reaching implications for development of baits. Baits developed with preferred food sources will be fed upon regardless of the natural food sources available.