Ants associated with fronds of the tropical bracken fern Pteridium esculentum subsp. arachnoideum

Abstract: Pteridium is a cosmopolitan genus of ferns that possess nectaries on its fronds (fern leaves), thereby attracting ants. Foliar (or extrafloral) are nectar-producing glands not related to pollination, but rather attract ants and other arthropods. found in 101 fern species, belonging 11 genera six families. The aim the study characterize community visit esculentum subsp. arachnoideum, as well daily seasonal ant abundance different frond development stages. was conducted Atlantic Forest Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. Bimonthly collections were established, where 30 expanding fully expanded randomly marked. In each 1-hour shift starting at 8:30 am ending 5:30 pm, observed for presence Thirty three species recorded arachnoideum fronds, distributed into subfamilies 13 genera. most abundant Solenopsis sp.1 Ectatomma tuberculatum. Eight foraging tropical bracken fronds. tuberculatum has been feeding patrolling Ant activity peak mid-day during rainy season. rich (the highest until now species) diverse mainly generalist predatory (Ectatomma sp.1) entire period suggests positive interaction between arachnoideum.