Acromyrmex

Acromyrmex is a genus of fungus-growing ants found mainly in Central and South America. They are known for cultivating underground fungus gardens that serve as their primary food source. These ants have strong, powerful mandibles and are social insects living in large colonies. They actively work together to tend their fungus farms, which they feed with plant material, and defend their nests from threats. Acromyrmex ants play an important role in their ecosystems by helping decompose plant material and aerate soil. Their unique mutualistic relationship with fungi exemplifies complex cooperative behavior in social insects.