Leaf-cutting Ant
Atta cephalotes

This highly social insect is named for its habit of cutting and carrying leaves back to its underground nest. The leaf fragments are used to grow specialized fungus gardens for food. The pruning action of the ants is beneficial in natural forests, but extremely destructive in agricultural regions.

Fact File

Ecological Role: Leaf pruner and decomposer

Habitat: Tropical forest and fields

Adult Lifespan: Worker – 1 to 2 yrs; Queen – 15 to 20 yrs

Diet: Fungus