Some (few) ant species have distinct worker subcastes. These are known as minor and major worker types, or workers and soldiers. Yet few have a supermajor worker subcaste in addition (sometimes known as a 'supersoldier').
In most species however, only one worker caste exists. Job role is dynamic amongst workers, changing as they get older. It is not designated at birth or before and is not influenced by the queen.
Task allocation amongst ants is a simple, predictable process. Switch of role is done on an individual basis, not by hierarchical control.
Tags: Frequently Asked Question | Morphology & Physiology | Behaviour
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