Scientific name: Atta cephalotes y especies afines
Complex societies that practice a form of symbiotic "agriculture" for millions of years.
How this species lives in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
Leafcutter ants are an impressive example of mutualistic agriculture in social insects.
They need suitable soils to excavate and nearby vegetation to obtain leaves continuously.
They organize leaf transport columns and divide work among castes and groups of workers within the nest.
Their relationship with the symbiotic fungus is so close that neither species thrives without the other.
In general they are common in conserved jungle areas; problems arise when they conflict with human agriculture.
Striking details about this species that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
Aspects to consider if this species is kept in captivity in specialized centers.
Maintaining large colonies in captivity is very complex due to space, temperature, and fungus management requirements.
Stress and unstable conditions can destroy the delicate balance with the cultivated fungus.
Their escape could cause problems in regions where they are not native.
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers.
Some museums and scientific centers maintain colonies visible to the public for education.
They require closed systems with temperature, humidity, and leaf supply control.
The logistics and cost of maintaining them limit their use to specialized institutions.
They are excellent for explaining agriculture, symbiosis, and social organization in non-human animals.
Whenever possible, it is preferable to observe insects in their natural environment, promote favorable habitats (flowers, ponds, hedges) and use captive breeding only for justified educational or conservation purposes.