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Dynamic thermal structure of imported fire ant mounds
James T Vogt1, Bradley Wallet, Steven Coy
1USDA, ARS Biological Control of Pests Research Unit, PO Box 67, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA.
Journal of Insect Science (Online)
|March 26, 2010
Summary
Imported fire ant mounds, including Solenopsis invicta, show distinct surface temperatures related to sun position and mound shape. Thermal infrared sensing can detect these temperature differences for mound monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Entomology
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Imported fire ant mounds (Solenopsis invicta and S. richteri) influence local microclimates.
- Understanding mound thermal properties is crucial for ecological studies and pest management.
Purpose of the Study:
- Characterize surface temperatures of fire ant mounds in relation to solar position and mound morphology.
- Assess the feasibility of using thermal infrared imagery for remote mound detection and classification.
Main Methods:
- Surface temperatures of fire ant mounds and surroundings were measured.
- Mound asymmetry and aspect were analyzed.
- Thermal infrared imagery was employed to visualize temperature patterns.
Main Results:
- Mound surface temperatures peaked post-solar noon, exceeding ambient temperatures by 2-10°C.
- Mound asymmetry (apex offset north) and south-facing slopes influenced surface temperature.
- Temporal temperature variations explained 77-88% of the data variation.
Conclusions:
- Sufficient temperature differences exist between mounds and surroundings for thermal infrared detection.
- Predictable temporal temperature changes can aid in classifying fire ant mounds in remote sensing images.
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