Leaf-Cutting Ant

Overview

A tropical ant that cuts and carries leaf fragments to underground fungus gardens. Can completely defoliate trees and shrubs overnight.

Health risks

Not directly harmful to humans but causes catastrophic damage to crops, gardens and trees. Major agricultural pest in tropical Africa.

Signs of infestation

• ✓Trails of ants carrying leaf fragments
• ✓Defoliated plants overnight
• ✓Large mounds with multiple entrances
• ✓Trails up to 100m long from nest to plants

Prevention

• ✓Apply sticky barriers around tree trunks
• ✓Use physical barriers around valuable plants
• ✓Monitor for new trail activity weekly
• ✓Remove dead wood near the garden

Common regions