The cercropia tree is sought after by many for its fruit and leaves. Azteca ants are vicious protectors of the tree. Living in the tree, the ants are provided with shelter and food. The food is provided by mealybugs tended by the ants or green nodes found at the base of the cercropia leaves. The ants protect their home by aggressively attacking anything that touches the tree. Azteca ants are a good food source for woodpeckers which frequently destroy Azteca colonies.
