Ants learned to farm fungi during a mass extinction

Ants have been farming with fungi for millions of years, way before humans. This sophisticated form of agriculture involves different ant species cooperating with specific strains of fungi by providing them a home, nutrients, and harvesting them for food. The relationship between ants and their crops likely began after the mass extinction that killed the dinosaurs, as only fungi could thrive in the aftermath. A recent study utilizing DNA from numerous fungus and ant species sheds light on the evolutionary origins of this agricultural practice. The research suggests that climate changes and selective pressures played a role in the development of ant-fungi symbiotic relationships.

https://arstechnica.com/science/2024/10/ants-fungus-agriculture-traced-back-to-dinosaur-killing-impact/

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