What is the key difference in ant structure between the core infestation and the 'edge'?

Ants on the periphery might exhibit slightly different foraging behaviors or colony structures

For biosecurity teams monitoring the boundaries of known infestations, understanding the dynamics at the fringe is critical. Ants located on the periphery, or the 'edge' of a large, established site, are actively testing new territory. This exploratory phase often results in observable differences in behavior compared to the stable environment deep within the established core area. These peripheral zones might show variations in their typical foraging patterns or may exhibit slightly different colony structures as they attempt to solidify a foothold in previously unoccupied ground. Early detection in these testing zones is highly valuable because it intercepts the spread before it becomes a mature, widespread infestation.