Ants, numbering around 20 quadrillion globally, possess unique abilities such as secreting antibiotic microorganisms that protect plants from diseases. Biologist Ida Cecilie Jensen views ants as vital allies in agriculture, capable of addressing challenges posed by climate change and increasing risk of plant pathogens. With their collective intelligence, social structures, and experience with similar challenges as humans, ants could provide innovative solutions for sustainable food growth. Jensen argues for harnessing their capabilities to minimize reliance on chemical pesticides and enhance agricultural resilience against climate-induced threats.
Ants are a Swiss Army knife, kind of like a multitool for farmers. They secrete antibiotic microorganisms from their feet, protecting trees from pathogens.
Ants have extraordinary collective intelligence, weaving robust community networks and dividing labor. They face similar problems to humans and have found effective solutions.
Plant diseases cost the global economy hundreds of billions annually, with climate change exacerbating risks by evolving pathogens and making crops more vulnerable to infection.
With an estimated 20 quadrillion ants on Earth, their role in agriculture could become increasingly pivotal. Ants' solutions to challenges could aid food growth in a warming world.
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