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📌 The Question:

Certain species of which one of the following organisms are well known as cultivators of fungi?

(a) Ant
(b) Cockroach
(c) Crab
(d) Spider

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✅ Correct Answer: (a) Ant

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🧠 Classroom Explanation:

Certain species of ants, especially leafcutter ants, are among the most remarkable examples of non-human agriculture in nature.

These ants practice a sophisticated form of fungus farming, which involves:

• Cutting fresh leaves and carrying them to underground nests
• Using the leaves as a substrate (fertilizer) for fungal growth
• Carefully regulating humidity and temperature
• Removing contaminating molds and dead material
• Protecting their fungal gardens from pests

The cultivated fungus is the primary food source for ant larvae and, in some species, for adults as well.

This relationship is known as ant–fungus mutualism, where:
➡ Ants provide food, care, and protection
➡ Fungus provides nourishment

This symbiosis has evolved over millions of years, making it one of the most advanced mutualistic systems in the animal kingdom.

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🔍 Curiosity Raiser:
Did you know?
👉 Leafcutter ants were practicing agriculture millions of years before humans invented farming.

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📚 Enrich Notes (Prelims Gold):

• Leafcutter ants belong mainly to genera Atta and Acromyrmex
• The fungus cultivated cannot survive independently in the wild
• Ants even carry antibiotic-producing bacteria on their bodies to protect fungal crops
• This is a classic example of obligate mutualism

Common UPSC Trap ❌:
➡ Thinking termites or cockroaches cultivate fungi
✔ Only ants are true fungal cultivators

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🪶 IAS Monk Whisper:
When intelligence meets cooperation, even insects become farmers.