ant-fungus mutualism

Ant-fungus mutualism is a collaborative relationship where certain ants and fungi benefit from each other. The ants cultivate the fungi by actively planting and tending to it in underground or specialized nests. In return, the fungi serve as a primary food source for the ants, providing essential nutrients. The ants protect the fungi from pests and contaminants, ensuring a healthy growth environment. This mutualism allows both species to thrive, with ants gaining reliable nourishment and fungi receiving care and protection, exemplifying a highly cooperative association in nature.