Shearing One Layer of Fire Ants (VIDEO)
Caption
Researchers found the rafts actively reorganize their structure, a feat that allows them to more effectively cushion themselves against applied forces, such as the battering of raindrops or the surges of waves. Here, one single layer of fire ants is being sheared by note cards. The edges of note cards were sanded to help fire ants to hold onto. The fire ants are constantly moving and their rearrangments allow them to reduce the effect of the applied shear stress.
Credit
Hu/Georgia Tech
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