Ants’ army that can protect mango orchards

JANGAON: Historian Rathnakar Reddy of Nellutla village in Lingala Ghanpur mandal of Jangaon district says light red coloured weaver ants can protect mango orchards from pests, thereby improving on quality and quantity of mangoes produced.

Rathnakar points out that most species of ants live below the ground. However, light red weaver ants; locally referred to as “Grandrakothlu”, live on trees in hot and humid regions. They feed on a variety of green vegetation, pests and small insects that can harm trees on which they live.

They are a good example for symbiotic life. The historian suggested that if government can culture these rare species of ants, they could be highly beneficial for mango farmers not only in Telangana but also in other regions across the country. Instead of depending on chemicals, fertilisers, pesticides and insecticides, farmers could opt for a biological method of controlling insects and pests that harm mango trees.

Retired forest officer Purushotham said that red weaver ants are known for their unique nest building by weaving leaves together using larval silk. They are usually found living in colonies built on mango, guava and jackfruit trees. The colonies comprise a couple of queen ants and lakhs of workers. The ants choose some sturdy and strong leaves. They join tips and narrow ends of these leaves by weaving them together with larval silk. They bend edges of leaves and create hollow spaces to accommodate thousands of ants.

With excellent craftsmanship and mastery in art of weaving nests, these ants are an example of hard work. The nest is built within a span of 24 hours. It is water and weatherproof. The nests are akin to birds’ nests. The ants also migrate from one nest to another with their eggs.

These ants are said to be a delicacy for some in China as well as in Orissa within India. They prepare chutneys with red ants and consume them as part of their meal, Purushotham informed.