Phylogenetic Data on Leaf-Cutting Ant Strategies

Phylogenetic data classifies leaf-cutting ant species by their predominant plant-cutting behavior as dicot, grass, or mixed cutters. The dataset integrates these classifications into a time-calibrated phylogenetic framework for evolutionary analysis. Compiled by Andrés F. Sánchez–Restrepo, it was last updated in April 2026.

Use Cases

• Reconstruct ancestral states for cutting behavior (dicot, grass, mixed) across the ant phylogeny.
• Analyze correlation between lineage divergence times (e.g., ~15 Ma for Acromyrmex) and the evolution of specialized grass-cutting.
• Test for phylogenetic signal or convergent evolution in the grass-cutting trait across clades like Acromyrmex and Amoimyrmex.
• Map the diversification dynamics of major genera (Acromyrmex, Atta, Amoimyrmex) against temporal environmental shifts.

Strengths

• Data is integrated into a time-calibrated phylogenetic framework, enabling evolutionary reconstructions.
• Ancestral state reconstructions are based on a compiled classification of species-level cutting behavior.
• Clear temporal context provided, dating the origin of leaf-cutting ants to the early Miocene and major diversification to the late Miocene–early Pliocene.

Limitations

• Dataset is very small at 15.6 KB, indicating limited scope, likely containing summary or classification data rather than raw observations.
• Specific sample sizes (row counts) and column details for individual species records are unknown.
• Geographic bias is present, focusing exclusively on Neotropical ecosystems.

Provenance

Source

figshare, authored by Andrés F. Sánchez–Restrepo.

Collection Method

Data compiled from literature on the predominant cutting behavior of leaf-cutting ant species, integrated into a phylogenetic framework.

Time Range

Evolutionary timeline spans from the early Miocene origin to Pliocene diversification events.

Freshness

Last updated in April 2026.

Geography

Neotropical ecosystems, primarily South America.