The Myrmecological Atlas Project: Mapping Microscopic Domains
Featured Article
Domestic Ant Cartography represents a groundbreaking intersection between micro-scale mapping and urban myrmecology. Since the pioneering work of Dr. Sarah Hillsworth in 2019, researchers have developed sophisticated techniques for documenting ant territories within human dwellings, leading to the discovery of complex three-dimensional "ant highways" and previously unknown architectural preferences in colony establishment.
Did you know...
- ...that the Great Kitchen Counter Migration of a Suburban Massachusetts ant colony was mapped in real-time using micro-tracking sensors?
- ...that vertical territory mapping revealed that ants utilize up to 85% more space than previously thought when canopy networks are included?
- ...that the International Ant Territory Database contains over 50,000 unique colony maps from six continents?
- ...that micro-LIDAR technology has revolutionized the way researchers document ant-modified environments?
In the news
- The discovery of a multi-story ant metropolis beneath a Portland garden challenges previous understanding of colony depth patterns.
- New mapping software allows citizen scientists to contribute to the Global Ant Territory Project.
- Researchers have identified distinct architectural styles in how different ant species construct their territories.
- The First International Conference on Micro-Territory Mapping announces its inaugural meeting.
On this day...
- 2021: The first complete 3D-printed model of an ant colony's territory was exhibited at the Museum of Micro-Landscapes
- 2020: Launch of the Ant Architecture Archive, documenting colony designs across various species
- 2019: Publication of the groundbreaking paper "Visualizing the Invisible: Modern Approaches to Mapping Ant Territories"
Today's featured territory
The Oakwood Complex, a remarkably intricate ant territory spanning three trees and two garden beds, showcases the sophisticated spatial engineering capabilities of common garden ants. The territory, mapped over six months using advanced photogrammetry, reveals an elaborate network of tunnels, chambers, and aerial pathways that challenges our understanding of ant spatial organization.
Did you know?
The Myrmecological Mapping Society has developed a standardized color-coding system for representing different types of ant-constructed spaces, from food storage chambers to nursery networks.