In 2012, scientists excavated an abandoned leafcutter ant nest in Brazil and uncovered a breathtaking underground network, once home to a thriving ant colony hidden just beneath our feet. Led by Professor Luis Forgi, the team revealed what looked like a miniature underground city, complete with tunnels, chambers, and highways. Leafcutter ants are more than just busy insects, they play a vital role in the environment. By cutting up leaves, flowers, and grass, they grow a special fungus undergroun

Hard at work every day, leaf cutter ants are one of the most important insects in the Neotropics. The harvested plant material is brought to the nest and is used to cultivate fungus farms. The fungus is the primary food source for the ants and this fascinating mutualistic relationship evolved over 50 million years ago. www.PeruNature.com | Rainforest Expeditions Lodges