Forward and backward walking: Locomotion and navigation in Cataglyphis fortis

Abstract

The ability to locomote and to navigate plays an indispensable role within the animal kingdom. These aspects can nicely be studied within the model organism Cataglyphis fortis that is adapted to a life within the hostile desert environments of North Africa, where a fast running and an efficient mode of orientation are required feats to survive. It is further decisive that the system of locomotion and navigation is able to cope with the unpredictability of its environment. The present work examine for the first time the influence of different walking speeds, changes in the walking direction and variations in the food supply on the animals’ behaviour by means of field and laboratory methods. The outcomes of our studies reveal a surprising flexibility and robustness of the ant’s locomotion and navigation behaviour.