Multisensory navigation and neuronal plasticity in desert ants

Abstract

Cataglyphis desert ants are skilled visual navigators. Here, I present a brief overview of multisensory learning and neuronal plasticity in ants, with a particular focus on the transition from the dark nest interior to performing first foraging trips. This highlights desert ants as experimental models for studying neuronal mechanisms underlying behavioral development into successful navigators.

Keywords: central complex; insect brain; learning and memory; mushroom body; synaptic plasticity.