Arthro-Pod Episode 198: Understanding Harvester Ants with Dr. Joanie King

Michael and Jody speak with Dr. Joanie King to talk about her love of ants, particularly the harvester ants. Discover fascinating insights into harvester ants, their behavior, ecological roles, and ongoing research from an experienced extension entomologist. This episode highlights the complexity of seed foraging, species diversity, and how ants contribute to ecosystems and land management.

In this episode:

• Meet Dr. Joanie King, extension entomologist at New Mexico State University
• The behavior and role of harvester ants in arid and semi-arid environments
• How seed preferences vary among different harvester ant species and their impact on restoration efforts
• Exploring the diversity of harvester ants such as Pogonomyrmex and Novomessor species
• Techniques for keeping and studying harvester ants in the lab
• The surprising connections between insects and popular culture, including their representation in films and sci-fi/comic conventions

Links and resources:

• Where to find Joanie King: https://eppws.nmsu.edu/faculty-staff/faculty.html
• Ask An Entomologist
• AntWiki - Comprehensive resource for ant taxonomy and behavior
• AntWeb - High-resolution ant specimen images and IDs

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