"Fire Ants' Rafting Behavior Inspires Innovative Rubber Technique at Texas A&M"

Thousands of fire ants in Texas formed a life-saving raft by interlocking their limbs and mandibles to protect their queen and colony from drowning in a swimming pool. The incredible footage, part of National Geographic's "A Real Bug's Life" series, showcases the ants' collective behavior and use of surface tension to stay afloat. The ants were discovered by location scouts and filmed with the help of an entomologist, revealing their ability to trap air bubbles and remain buoyant. This remarkable survival strategy allows the ants to withstand significant weight and stay afloat for extended periods.