Ants are unique amongst insects in having metapleural glands. These glands are paired structures which produce and secrete antibiotics onto the exoskeleton, preventing the growth of bacteria and fungus. A chemical defence; ants evolved the ability to culture bacteria and produce antibiotics long before humans.
The envionments in which ants live mean they face the constant challenge of disease. Ants deploy diverse range of antimicrobial compounds against pathogens from the metapleural glands.
Ants use their forelegs to groom the metapleural gland opening. Atta are specialised in this, using the antibiotics produced by the metapleural gland to promote the funus they use for food.
Tags: Atta | Morphology & Physiology | Evolution | Ants & Humans
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