Evidence for a Negative Effect of Double-crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) on Invasive European Fire Ants (Myrmica rubra)

Authors

  • Aditi Gupta Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
  • Kristi Rudmik Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
  • Gail S. Fraser Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v131i4.1845

Keywords:

Double-crested Cormorant, Phalacrocorax auritus, European Fire Ant, Myrmica rubra, invasive species, ant nest density, non-native, guano, soil

Abstract

Nesting of Double-crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) in western Lake Ontario is associated with reduced abundance and nest density of European Fire Ants (Myrmica rubra). The impact on fire ants may be substrate related. It is of potential importance because of the negative effect of fire ants on ground-nesting water birds.

Author Biography

Gail S. Fraser, Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University

Associate Professor

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Published

2018-05-23

Issue

Vol. 131 No. 4 (2017)

Section

Notes

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