Mesophilous grasslands in the dunes are known to have a rich flora and invertebrate fauna, but little was known about their ant fauna. The presence of ant nests may have a considerable effect on local soil conditions and hence on the germination abilities of several plants. A detailed survey of ant nests was done in a study plot in Oostvoorduinen (Oostduinkerke). 7 species were found: Myrmica scabrinodis, M. sabuleti, M. specioides, Tetramorium caespitum, Formica cunicularia, Lasius psammophilus and Lasius niger. Material from the nests of F. cunicularia contained more lime and a slender organic soil layer compared to reference samples. Nest soils were also more penetrable than reference samples. These nests were suitable sites for germination of Thymus pulegioides. Although known as myrmecochorous plant species, the distribution of Luzula campestris and Polygala vulgaris was not significantly affected by the distribution of the nests of any ant species. High level of dynamics due to grazing could explain this.
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