Leafcutter ant workers
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Leafcutter ant workers
Leafcutter ant workers (Atta cephalotes) gathering leaves. These ants are carrying leaves to their nest, which they use to cultivate a fungus as a food source. The ants have a mutual relationship with the fungus, which grows in their underground nests. Photographed in Costa Rica. and moulds. Photographed in Costa Rica
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6462080
© BOB GIBBONS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ants Carrying Central America Central American Collecting Colony Costa Rica Cultivating Cutting Gathering Insecta Symbiosis Transporting Worker Workers Atta Cephalotes Leafcutter Ant
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from Science Photo Library showcases the industrious Leafcutter ant workers (Atta cephalotes) in action. In the lush forests of Costa Rica, these remarkable ants can be seen diligently gathering leaves to transport back to their underground nests. But why do they go through such lengths? The answer lies in their fascinating mutual relationship with a special fungus. These leafcutters have formed a unique symbiotic bond with the fungus, which serves as their primary food source. Inside their intricate colonies, the ants cultivate this fungus by carefully tending to it and providing it with nourishment from the harvested leaves. In return, the fungus provides sustenance for the entire ant colony. In this photograph, we witness multiple Leafcutter ant workers carrying pieces of foliage that are several times larger than themselves. Their strength and determination are truly awe-inspiring as they navigate through dense vegetation towards their subterranean homes. The image captures not only an incredible display of nature's ingenuity but also highlights the complexity of biological relationships within ecosystems. It reminds us that even seemingly small creatures like ants play vital roles in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Thanks to Science Photo Library's expertise in capturing moments like this, we are granted a glimpse into one of nature's most intriguing collaborations between insects and fungi - an extraordinary example of how interconnected our world truly is.
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