Where do leafcutter ants grow their fungus gardens?
Quick Answer
Leafcutter ants farm fungus in tropical forests of Central and South America. Their underground nests are often huge and contain specialized chambers for the crop.
The Full Story
Leafcutter ants are native to the tropical forests and grasslands of Central and South America. They do not eat the leaves they cut; instead, they use the plant material to cultivate a fungus that is their main food source. Their nests are often sprawling underground systems with many chambers for fungus gardens, waste, and brood. Some colonies can contain millions of ants. This farming behavior is one of the most advanced examples of insect agriculture known to science.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"These ants don’t eat the leaves they cut—they grow dinner with them."
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