Yes, ants do move the queen, especially in specific circumstances. In monogynous ant colonies, the queen is crucial for survival, and her relocation is often necessary when the old nest is no longer suitable and the new nest isn't yet fully established.
Why Ants Move Their Queen
Ants move their queen for colony survival. Here's why:
- Unsuitable Nest: When the existing nest is damaged, infested, or otherwise compromised, it becomes necessary to move the queen to a safer location.
- Incomplete New Nest: Emigration can happen even when the new nest isn't fully ready, driven by the urgent need to leave the old, problematic one. This is especially true for monogynous ants where the queen is vital.
The Queen's Role in Monogynous Colonies
In monogynous colonies (colonies with only one queen), the queen's well-being is paramount. Her movement is a significant event, undertaken only when necessary for the colony's survival. According to the reference, "her movement during an emigration is likely to occur when the old nest is no longer suitable for the colony and the new nest is incomplete and not fully fortified."
