ABSTRACT
This chapter describes studies in Venezuela, which are demonstrating its value in managing pest ants in pine tree plantations. It is a progress report of the first five steps in a 10-stage research project. They are identify pest species; for each pest species, evaluate losses in wood production; study the biology and ecology of the pest species; design possible control systems; and evaluate the efficiency of these control systems. Three leaf-cutting ant species were found in the study area, Acromyrmexlandolti, Attalaevigata, and A. sexdens. Mature pines are attacked by Atta colonies but not by Acromyrmex colonies. Birds and anteaters eat Atta workers, but the quantities they ingest are small in relation to the work force of millions in mature colonies. After planting, control of Atta colonies at critical moments during the productive life of the forest should be enough to maintain pest densities below the economic threshold.
