Baits and other foods do not effect the ants because they only eat the fungus. The American Cyanamid Company has developed a unique product called Amdro Leaf-Cutting Ant Bait which is a formulation of hydramethylnon. It is the most effective leaf-cutting ant killer on the market. The ants are attracted to the substance which is spread on the ground and feed it to their fungus. The product poisons the fungus and it dies along with the ants (Stewart 1982).



Conclusion

The leaf-cutter ant has become a marvel of cooperation and unselfishness. The ant system has become a collection of individual ant that are each specialized in their tasks as the cells of the human body and that jointly perform the task of keeping the nest alive. They do precisely the right things for their own survival. Guided by instinct, the superorganism responds adaptively to the environment. Humans depend on the ants for their very survival but the ants do not depend on us. For a while at least, they will help to hold the world in balance to our liking, and they will serve as a reminder of what a wonderful place it was when we arrived in north and central America. There is still many more answers unsolved about the Atta tribe. In time we will learn more and will be amazed. For when Solomon said “Go to the ant, thou sluggard, Consider her ways and be wise!” (Proverbs 6:6 – 8). I am sure it was meant to be taken literally.