What is it about?
High-resolution supermagnified images of Brazilian leaf cutter ants are shown all over this paper. The larvae are covered with fungal hyphae, and the mouthparts of leaf-cutting ants are unique among ants. Details of all instars and developmental stages are described in minute details.
Featured Image
Photo by Lucas Scariot on Unsplash
Why is it important?
We urgently need species-specific highly detailed descriptions of every relevant ant in this planet, if we really wish to claim they're being decently studied for control and biology. This is unfortunately a neglected line of research, wherein we're attempting to contribute as best as possible.
Perspectives
I am looking forwards for doing similar studies with related species, particularly controversial species (e.g. Atta robusta) and intricate groups (Tanaemyrmex). There's a lot we don't know there, just waiting for the moment somebody will shed a light.
Dr Eduardo G P Fox
IBCCF / UFRJ
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: On the morphology of the worker immatures of the leafcutter ant Atta sexdens linnaeus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), Microscopy Research and Technique, March 2012, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22031.
You can read the full text:
Resources
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
