Rusty Patched Bumble Bee vs Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rusty Patched Bumble Bee | Amazonian Fungus-Growing Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bombus affinis | Atta laevigata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Apidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 13-20 mm | 2-15 mm (caste dependent) |
| Habitat | Underground | Caves |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Upper Midwest and northeastern United States, now extremely restricted | Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Rusty Patched Bumble Bee
A once-common bumble bee named for the rust-colored patch on the second abdominal segment of workers. It was the first bumble bee in the continental United States listed as endangered.
Did You Know?
Its range has shrunk by nearly 87 percent since the 1990s, making it one of the rarest bees in North America.
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.