Periodicity and diversity in ant mating flights

Abstract

1. Flight hours and seasons are alike within species, but differ among species and among genera. 2. Laboratory studies indicate internal circadian control of the phase relation to the light-dark cycle, with field evidence for modification by temperature (or other environmental variables). 3. In at least two species there is abrupt loss of obvious rhythm after mating, suggesting some special function before loss, e.g. to facilitate cross-breeding within species or reproductive isolation between species.