The effects of chemically embalmed carrion on fire ant foraging

Fire ants are omnivorous decomposers known to consume carrion both above and below ground. Embalming fluids are a mix of formaldehyde and other chemicals such as methanol. These chemicals are used to preserve human cadavers before burial. If the cadavers are not properly encased, there is a high likelihood that a widespread decomposer such as fire ants may encounter the remains. While there have been studies on the introduction of preserved lab specimens to decomposers, there is a dearth of research into the effects on decomposers when presented embalming fluids intended for human remains. This study examined how chemically embalmed carrion affects fire ant foraging behavior and survival. We expect ants to avoid foraging on embalmed carrion, while actively consuming control carrion. Red imported fire ant (Solenopsis Invicta) workers and brood were collected from colonies near College Station, TX. Fire ant workers and brood were placed into each of eight plastic experiment boxes and provided with water and a sugar-water solution. One group of pinky mice (n=4) were injected with an embalming solution and the other group were non-injected controls (n=4). One pinky mouse was placed in each experiment box and covered with compacted soil. Ants from each treatment were observed for a total of 2 weeks, with observations made on the number of tunnels dug to reach the mice, and numbers of surviving ants. Findings from this study provide insights into fire ant foraging on embalmed remains with applications for forensic science.