Scientists use Age of Empires computer game to simulate ant warfare
Scientists use Age of Empires computer game to simulate ant warfare
Scientists use Age of Empires computer game to simulate ant warfare
By Megan Hughes
October 2, 2023
Summary
Researchers in Australia are using the popular computer game Age of Empires to help eradicate invasive ant species. The study, conducted by Australia's national science agency CSIRO and the University of Western Australia, involved simulating ant warfare by building armies and battlegrounds of different sizes and shapes. The goal was to make native ants more competitive against invasive species, which cost hundreds of millions of dollars to eradicate in Australia. The research focused on native Australian meat ants and invasive Argentine ants, with the game providing a platform to study their behavior in simple and complex terrain-based battlefields.
The study found that small armies of strong ants performed better in complex terrains, while large armies of weaker ants were more successful in simple open battlefields. The results could have practical applications for habitat management, suggesting that adding undergrowth or environmental complexity back into urbanized environments could tip the competitive balance in favor of native ants. Invasive ants pose a significant problem in Australia, with 50 different species establishing themselves and causing damage to agriculture by preying on native animals and damaging infrastructure. While eradication efforts are ongoing, the study emphasizes the importance of improving biosecurity measures and investing in research to better understand and control ant invasions.
Reference
Hughes, M. (2023, October 2). Scientists use Age of Empires computer game to simulate ant warfare. ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/2023-10-03/age-of-empires-computer-game-ant-warfare-simulation-csiro-uwa/102923706