Aguilera-Espinosa O. auteur aut IRD Katz Esther auteur aut IRD Césard N. auteur aut IRD text journalArticle spa text/pdf reformatted digital access The study focuses on the consumption of big-bottomed ants (hormigas culonas), Atta laevigata (F. Smith, 1858), in the department of Santander, Colombia. It analyzes the complex interactions between local communities and these insects, which are appreciated as a regional food heritage but are also seen as pests due to the significant damage they cause to crops. It highlights the importance of local knowledge in collecting ants and how their commercialization has experienced a remarkable increase, partly due to the migration of Santander residents and tourism. The article also discusses the ecological importance of leafcutter ants in ecosystems. In addition, it suggests the need for a broader approach to preserve these species, considering their role in nature and exploring strategies for coexistence with other species cataloged as pests. It argues that food heritage can play a crucial role in promoting these approaches. specialized COLOMBIE 054 021 106 112 8 104-125 2024 2805-8631 https://www.documentation.ird.fr/hor/fdi:010093084 10.53010/ycmp4466 2805-8631 [F B010093084] https://www.documentation.ird.fr/hor/fdi:010093084 https://horizon.documentation.ird.fr/exl-doc/pleins_textes/2025-04/010093084.pdf IRD - Base Horizon / Pleins textes 2025-02-19 2025-11-06 fdi:010093084 fre