The leafcutter ant is a fascinating insect known for its unique behavior of cutting and collecting leaves. These ants belong to the genera Atta and Acromyrmex and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. They do not eat the leaves directly; instead, they use them to cultivate a special fungus, which serves as their primary food source.
Leafcutter ants live in large colonies that can consist of millions of individuals. Each colony has a complex social structure, with different castes performing specific roles, such as foragers, workers, and soldiers. This cooperative behavior allows them to efficiently gather resources and maintain their fungus gardens.