This paper studies the role of chemical communication in the formation of trail networks by
foraging ants. A cellular automaton model for the motion of the ants is formulated, which
assumes that individuals interact according to a simple behavioural algorithm. The ants
communicate by depositing trail markers composed of volatile chemicals that serve as
attractants for other ants. The ants interact with the network both by following the trails and
by extending and reinforcing the trails they follow. By varying the parameters describing …