What is the role of the bacteria found in the whitish-gray crust on the ants who tend fungal gardens?
A) The bacteria infect the ants, preventing overpopulation by the ants, which would deplete their fungal food source.
B) The bacteria infect and kill other insects who try to exploit the ants' fungal garden.
C) The bacteria prevent parasite infection of the ants.
D) The bacteria provide antibiotics that target diseases dangerous to the fungal garden.

Question

What is the role of the bacteria found in the whitish-gray crust on the ants who tend fungal gardens? 
A) The bacteria infect the ants, preventing overpopulation by the ants, which would deplete their fungal food source. 
B) The bacteria infect and kill other insects who try to exploit the ants' fungal garden. 
C) The bacteria prevent parasite infection of the ants. 
D) The bacteria provide antibiotics that target diseases dangerous to the fungal garden.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The bacteria found in the whitish-gray crust on ants who tend fungal gardens provide antibiotics that target diseases dangerous to the fungal garden. This helps protect the ants' source of food and ensures the survival of the fungal garden.

What Is the Role of the Bacteria Found in the Whitish-Gray