fungus-farming ants

Fungus-farming ants, such as leafcutter ants, cultivate fungi as their primary food source. They gather plant materials, which they chew and mix with saliva to create a nutrient-rich substrate for the fungi. The ants then carefully tend to this fungus, protecting it from pathogens and pests. In return, they consume the fungus, which is rich in protein and carbohydrates. This mutualistic relationship showcases complex social behavior and agriculture, as the ants have developed sophisticated systems for farming and maintaining their fungal crops over millions of years, demonstrating an impressive example of cooperation in nature.