Ants ‘social distance’ during a pandemic

Ants Practice Social Distancing During Pandemics

A new study published in the journal Science reveals that ants change their behavior to reduce the spread of disease.

When exposed to a pathogen, ants build their structures differently, demonstrating a unique approach to social distancing.

We had to completely reorganize our spaces to avoid close contact during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Similarly, ants take actions to lessen the spread of disease, making them one of the smallest creatures to exhibit such behavior.

Author's summary: Ants exhibit social distancing behavior during pandemics.

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Popular Science Popular Science — 2025-10-18

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