Ants could help farms fight pests and climate-driven crop disease

Researchers say ants may help protect crops like apples, mangoes and cocoa by reducing plant diseases and replacing chemical pesticides.

Ayurella Horn-Muller reports for Grist.

In short:

Ants secrete antimicrobial substances that protect crops from pathogens and pests.
Studies show that ants in orchards can significantly reduce disease, such as apple scab and mango anthracnose.
Some experts remain skeptical, noting existing biopesticides may already be as effective as using ants.

Key quote:

“Ants are a Swiss army knife. Kind of like a multi-tool for farmers.”

— Ida Cecilie Jensen, Aarhus University biologist

Why this matters:

Pesticide overuse can harm ecosystems, spur resistance in pests and worsen climate impacts. Ants offer a natural alternative that could save money and reduce pesticide reliance, though more research is needed to address potential ecological risks.

LISTEN: The allure of regenerative agriculture
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grist.org

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