Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant vs Vegetable Caterpillar
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant | Vegetable Caterpillar |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Atta laevigata | Ophiocordyceps robertsii |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Hepialidae |
| Size | 2-15 mm (caste dependent) | 50-100 mm (caterpillar plus fungal stalk) |
| Habitat | Caves | Underground |
| Diet | Fungus Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| 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.
Vegetable Caterpillar
The host of this relationship is the caterpillar of the native moth Aenetus virescens, parasitized by the endemic Cordyceps fungus. The fungus invades and mummifies the caterpillar underground, then sends a fruiting body to the surface. It was known to Maori as awhato.
Did You Know?
Maori prized the vegetable caterpillar as a pigment source, grinding the fungus-caterpillar combination to produce a blue-black tattoo ink.