Biology

The role of ant-mediated biological interactions in agroecosystems

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Ants are common in agroecosystems, where they can significantly impact agricultural production and yield through interactions with other organisms. By regulating crop-damaging insects and occasionally pollinating flowers, ants provide ecosystem services. However, ants can harm crops through herbivory, tending hemipterans, eating beneficial arthropods, or vectoring disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the roles played by ants in agroecosystems through their interactions with other species. We categorize ant species interactions as beneficial or harmful, direct or indirect, and address the importance of context-dependency. In addition to reviewing the role of ant-mediated biological interactions in agroecosystems, we discuss management implications that should be considered when supporting or suppressing ants. This article provides new insights and suggests promising directions for utilizing ants to implement more sustainable agricultural practices in agroecosystems across the globe. We propose that ants play critical roles in agroecosystems through their interactions with other organisms and should be considered when making management decisions. © The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Entomological Society of America.

Publication Title

Annals of the Entomological Society of America

Publication Date

3-1-2024

Volume

117

Issue

2

First Page

79

Last Page

91

ISSN

0013-8746

DOI

10.1093/aesa/saae002

Keywords

agroecosystem, ant, biological control, ecosystem service, herbivory

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