Atta
is the most conspicuous leaf-cutting ant of the new world tropics and subtropics. These large, spiny insects are farmers- they use freshly cut vegetation to cultivate a fungus in subterranean gardens. Colonies are among the most complex insect societies known: nests can persist for decades and contain over a million individuals.
Atta cephalotes, close-up of the head of a soldier. The sharp mandibles of this ant can easily slice through skin, so handle these ants with care!
Captive colony at the California Academy of Sciences
Atta cephalotes, close-up of the head of a soldier. The sharp mandibles of this ant can easily slice through skin, so handle these ants with care!
Captive colony at the California Academy of Sciences
Canon EOS D60 |
Original size: 3072x2048 |
Current: 800x534 |
