Abstract
This work aimed to study the ecological aspects of the nesting process carried out by Atta and Acromyrmex leaf-cutter ants in the Campos de Lages Microregion, Brazil. In each municipality 4 equidistant observation sites were established, each point representing an anthill, for a total of 72 anthills. All cutter anthill’s sampled were georeferenced and measured in relation to their surface. Soil samples were collected at three points at 1.5 m from each anthill, at a depth of 10 to 20 cm. Subsequently, the environmental characterization and definition of the architecture of each anthill were performed. The clay contents influenced the selection process of ant nesting sites of the species Atta ssp., and the Al contents and pH values of the soil influenced the nesting process of Acromyrmex ssp. ants. The Acromyrmex spp. anthills were located at higher altitudes than the Atta ssp. anthills. Regarding Atta ssp. anthill’s have a rough shape, are apparent and preferably located on the edges of vegetative fragments. Acromyrmex spp. anthill’s have a circular shape, are apparent, and preferably located in areas on the edges of forest fragments.
Highlights
In the south of Brazil there are unique formations called altitude fields or fields above the mountain range (Martins et al, 2011)
The clay contents influenced the selection process of ant nesting sites of the species Atta ssp., and the aluminum element (Al) contents and pH values of the soil influenced the nesting process of Acromyrmex ssp. ants
The Acromyrmex spp. anthills were located at higher altitudes than the Atta ssp. anthills
Summary
In the south of Brazil there are unique formations called altitude fields or fields above the mountain range (Martins et al, 2011). Its relevance as an insect-pest for agriculture is related to its habit of foraging plants to cultivate its fungus symbiont, its real food source, mainly for queens and young forms (Peternelli, 2009). Despite various damages they can cause in agriculture, leaf-cutting ants play a particular ecological role in natural ecosystems and even in agro-ecosystems (Wells et al, 2017), as they provide various ecological services, such as secondary seed dispersal, dormancy breakage of various plant species, in addition to promoting the revitalization of soils through the process of redevelopment, resulting in physical improvements and increased fertility (Peternelli, 2009)
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