Atta (ant)

Atta is a genus of ants found in South, Central, and southern North America (including the Caribbean). They belong to the subfamily Myrmicinae. Atta are commonly referred to as leafcutter ants, although that name is shared with members of the genus Acromyrmex.

Atta are notable for their feeding habits. Worker ants gather plant material from around their colony and carry the plant parts into the colony's underground chambers. The organic material nourishes symbiotic fungus growing inside of the colony, which the ants consume. Leafcutters don't sting, thus do not inject venom, but are known to be strong biters.