The determination of the proximate causes of queen polymorphism and its consequences on the genetic structure of colonies and populations shed light on the understanding of alternative reproductive strategies in social insects. Here the two morphs show fascinating differences in behavior, physiology and reproduction. The winged males behave peacefully, similar to the typical male ants, and presumably mate outside of their maternal colonies with alien queens. Sperm production has stopped by the time they leave the maternal nest. In contrast, wingless males aggressively attack their rivals and attempt to monopolize matings with newly emerging queens in their own nest.
Spermatogenesis continues for the whole lifespan of wingless males.
Using genetic and histological investigations we try to determine what proximately causes this polymorphism and how it evolved. In collaboration with Russian researchers we study how these species are adapted to cold climate. Aim of these studies is to determine the nature of colony odour in slave making and other ants, and the chemical basis of rank recognition in species with dominance hierarchies. Regulation of reproduction in the ponerine ant, Pachycondyla villosa. Reproductive hierarchies among workers of the slave-making ant, Chalepoxenus muellerianus.