Lasius umbratus

Urbana, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus

Urbana, Illinois, USA
The intricate galleries in this underground nest of Lasius umbratus ants are made possible by a fungus that grows within a matrix of wood pulp sculpted by the ants.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
The intricate galleries in this underground nest of Lasius umbratus are made possible by a fungus that grows within a matrix of wood pulp sculpted by the ants.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
The intricate galleries in this underground nest of Lasius umbratus are made possible by a fungus that grows within a matrix of wood pulp sculpted by the ants.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
The intricate galleries in this underground nest of Lasius umbratus ants are made possible by a fungus that grows within a matrix of wood pulp sculpted by the ants.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus with mealybugs.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus with mealybugs. 

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus cocoons in the brood nest.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus with mealybugs.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus with mealybugs.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
Lasius umbratus with mealybugs.

Vermillion River Observatory, Illinois, USA
See photo in original gallery.
all images and text © Alex Wild 2001-2013