Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant vs Cork Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant | Cork Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Atta laevigata | Nemapogon cloacella |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Tineidae |
| Size | 2-15 mm (caste dependent) | 10-16 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Caves | Gardens |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana | Europe, Asia, introduced to North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant
One of the largest leaf-cutter ant species with smooth, shiny-headed major workers. Its subterranean colonies can span 30 meters and house millions of workers.
Did You Know?
A single mature colony excavates over 40 tons of soil, creating underground chambers that improve soil aeration and drainage.
Cork Moth
A small mottled brown and cream moth that naturally breeds in bracket fungi on trees. It occasionally becomes a pest in wine cellars by boring into corks.
Did You Know?
Wine collectors dread this moth because its larvae can bore through corks and ruin entire cellars of fine wine.