The structure of an Azteca ant garden is provided by carton, a pulp of vegetative debris built by the ants. Barton Creek, Cayo District, Belize.
Azteca colonies typically produce a steady stream of winged queens throughout the season, essentially saturating the environment with propagules to colonize any unclaimed territory in the forest canopy. This queen came to a light trap in Armenia, Cayo District, Belize. Thanks to Jack Longino for the species ID.
A young Azteca isthmica queen cuts into the soft tissue of a Cecropia tree to gain access to the hollow center. The trees welcome such an intrusion: the resident Azteca colony founded by this queen will provide ample protection from herbivores. Coclé, Panama
