New book summarises current knowledge of wood ants

“Bringing together the expertise of ecological researchers and conservation practitioners, the book provides practical and theoretical advice about sampling and monitoring these insects, and outlines the requirements for effective conservation

An upcoming book co-edited by a James Hutton Institute entomologist and environmental researcher will provide an in-depth look into the contribution of wood ants to woodland ecosystem functions and processes.

Dr Jenni Stockan, from the Institute’s Environmental and Biochemical Sciences group, collaborated with a group of leading scientists to create the book, titled Wood Ant Ecology and Conservation. The work is a compilation of current knowledge on wood ants, from their taxonomy, global distribution, social structures and genetics, to their interactions with the environment and other species, as well as many other aspects.

“Bringing together the expertise of ecological researchers and conservation practitioners, the book provides practical and theoretical advice about sampling and monitoring these insects, and outlines the requirements for effective conservation,” Dr Stockan said.

“This is an indispensable resource for wood ant researchers, entomologists, conservationists and ecological consultants, as well as anyone interested in social insects, keystone species and the management and conservation of forest ecosystems.”

Wood Ant Ecology and Conservation has been published by Cambridge University Press and is part of the editorial’s Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation series. It will be available for purchase from June 2016 on the CUP website.

The James Hutton Institute’s Environmental and Biochemical Sciences group, to which Dr Stockan belongs, brings together people with expertise covering much of the terrestrial environment and involves research on soils, water and crop production. Visit the EBS group page for more information.