Eciton
is a large, conspicuous army ant endemic to the neotropics. Most species have a soldier caste with mandibles modified into ice-tong shaped hooks for defense against vertebrates. One rain forest species, E. burchellii, is known for its expansive epigaeic swarm raids.
Eciton burchellii set up bivouacs by linking their bodies together. Here, one worker serves as an anchor for several others.
Maquipucuna reserve, Pichincha, Ecuador
Eciton burchellii set up bivouacs by linking their bodies together. Here, one worker serves as an anchor for several others.
Maquipucuna reserve, Pichincha, Ecuador
Canon EOS 7D |
Original size: 3144x4704 |
Current: 401x600 |
