<Note>Invasive ants of tropical origin at mid-high altitude and latitude: adaptation and invasiveness

Abstract

Recent discovery of longhorn crazy ant (Paratrechina longicornis) at mid-high altitude and latitude raises a series of ecological and evolutionary issues as this invasive ant, although reportedly originated from tropical regions, seems to be able to survive through cold environments. We thus are interested in understanding if colonization of longhorn crazy ant into these areas involves thermal adaptation, and if such adaptive potential results from behavioral/physiological plasticity or strong genetic basis. Here we reported some preliminary data and also presented future research framework of my laboratory on dissecting the adaptive mechanisms of this invasive ant. Results are expected to serve baseline information for development of management strategy on ant invasion under different temperature regimes.