Ant Capitalism - How the Social Circulatory System Rewires Metabolism and Ageing in Superorganismal Colonies

Explore the fascinating world of ant colonies and their complex social structures in this 45-minute lecture on "Ant capitalism: How the social circulatory system rewires metabolism and ageing in superorganismal colonies." Delve into major evolutionary transitions, ant biology, and collective decision-making processes. Examine how investment in longevity and cooperation between cells contributes to the success of ant societies. Investigate the role of nutrient transformers, diet, and trophallaxis in shaping colony dynamics. Discover the importance of gut flora and juvenile hormone in the social circulatory system. Analyze molecular evidence comparing nurse and forager ants, and explore the implications for avoiding aging in these superorganisms. Gain insights into macroevolution and social fluid exchange in ant colonies, and understand how size differentiation and manipulation of trophallaxis contribute to their complex social structure.