Originally posted by PawnokeyholeI think that would be taking things a little far. We could, for example, note that some ants, if cornered, will drop their trousers and do a moony at their attacker but is that really the kind of thing we wish to include in such a beautiful ant fact collection as we are compiling.
That, and their possession of an exoskelton.
Originally posted by WheelyIs not the exoskeletal nature of the ant relevant to its squishability?
I think that would be taking things a little far. We could, for example, note that some ants, if conered, will drop their trousers and do a moony at their attacker but is that really the kind of thing we wish to include in such a beautiful ant fact collection as we are compiling.
Originally posted by PawnokeyholeSurely it is enough to note their squishiness. However, the chitinous exoskeleton of the ant is actually their only anti-squish defence. That it is utterly useless at the task does not negate the fact of its function. I would therefore suggest that the squishy property of the ant is due more to the slimey, gooey nature of its insides than the poor properties of its pathetically inadequate armour.
Is not the exoskeletal nature of the ant relevant to its squishability?
Maybe we should take a vote on the matter.
Originally posted by WheelyX can be relevant to Y without facilitating it. Your elementary logical errors are staggering.
Surely it is enough to note their squishiness. However, the chitinous exoskeleton of the ant is actually their only anti-squish defence. That it is utterly useless at the task does not negate the fact of its function. I would therefore suggest that the squishy property of the ant is due more to the slimey, gooey nature of its insides than the poor properties of its pathetically inadequate armour.
Maybe we should take a vote on the matter.
I was thinking more along the lines of the inhibition of squishiness.
But (I painfully admit) a determined thumb readily breaches all the exoskeletal defenses your average ant can muster.
Hence, I graciously retract my assertion of relevance.
Ants have been here millions of years. Humans not so long. Our ancesters learned how to survive from the all knowledgeable ants. How soon we forget the great teachings of our mentors. The long lost scriptures all but forgotten. It was ants that taught us how to do the many things we now take for granted.
SUCH AS..................
LIVESTOCK FARMING:
Ants long perfected the herding of aphids & "milk" them for nectar-like food
CULTIVATION:
Ants grow underground gardens for food. Without pesticides or the need for genetically altered seeds
CHILDCARE:
Ants specialise in feeding/protecting young & providing intensive child care. All for free, no debate
EDUCATION:
Older ants teach younger ants the tricks of the trade
CLIMATE CONTROL:
They maintain a strict 77o F. for developing ants (without thermostats)
CAREER SPECIALIZATION
changing & learning new careers, they adapt and learn new skills with ease
CIVIC DUTIES:
Ants respond with massive group projects always working as a complete unit.
ARMED FORCES:
An army of specialized soldier ants is a formidable force. The US military have been studying and utilizing many war tactics used by ants. (They still lack the strength and unity mastered by our ant overlords)
SECURITY
Ants easily ward off rival ants, insects, and animals. Anyone who has ever knocked over an ant hill can see first hand there organized defenses.
EARTH MOVERS
Ants move at least as much soil as earthworms. Constantly trying to repair the damage we do.
SOCIAL PLANNING:
They maintain ratio of workers, soldiers, & reproductives. All human attempts have failed miserably.
ENGINEERING
They can tunnel from 2 directions & meet exactly midway. All without university degrees to do so..
COMMUNICATIONS:
They use a complex tactile, chemical communication system. We still can't master cell phone reception
FLOOD CONTROL
They incorporate water traps to keep out rain. New orleans...need I say more.
LIMITED FREE WILL
Their inter-relationships are more symbiotic than coercive.
As all the ants of the world unite our days are numbered. It will be death to ant crushers everywhere.