Investigation of some factors affecting habitat selection and nest size of Formica rufa

• Published in: Forest ecology and management 2023-10, Vol.545, p.121244, Article 121244
• Main Authors: Yilmaz, Mustafa, Özcan, Gonca Ece, Sivrikaya, Fatih, Enez, Korhan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Climate variables; Formica rufa; Habitat preferences; Nest volume; Stand; Topography
• ISSN: 0378-1127; 1872-7042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foreco.2023.121244

•Formica rufa is a species of insect that predominantly inhabits forest ecosystems. This study aimed to investigate the impact of various stand, topographic, and climatic factors on the habitat preferences of Formica rufa.•Ten variables were considered in three major categories: productivity, stand structure, crown closure, site class, age class, elevation, slope, aspect, temperature, and precipitation.•Furthermore, it was determined that various factors such as crown closure, site class, age class, productivity, and elevation exhibited a statistically significant impact on the nest volumes. The study aimed to assess the habitat preferences and nest volumes of Formica rufa in coniferous stands, taking into account various stand, topographic, and climatic variables. The variables that impact the habitat of F. rufa in the Western Black Sea region were identified through the utilization of climate data, stand map, DEM data, and field data. Ten different variables were analyzed separately for F. rufa nests using the Geographic Information System (GIS). Based on the stand variables, it can be inferred that F. rufa were predominantly preferred as over-mature, full canopy cover, medium and poor site class, and productive stands. Based on the analysis of topographical variables, the ants exhibit a preference for areas that have low slopes, high elevations, and shady aspects. Additionally, the investigation of climatic variables revealed a higher incidence of ants in regions with an average temperature below 12 °C, and low levels of precipitation. It was determined that nest volumes are larger in high site index, productive stands, young stands, low crown closure stands and high elevation. Based on the findings, it is crucial to monitor the habitat preferences of F. rufa over extended periods and large geographical areas. The protection and enhancement of their habitats are imperative for the sustainability and health of the ecosystem.