Argentine Ants -- Scale Insects (IMAGE) University of California - Berkeley Caption Argentine ants, Linepithema humile, are shown here tending scale insects. These ants indirectly contribute to crop damage by protecting agricultural pests such as scale insects and aphids. In return for this protection, the ants feed off the honeydew secreted by the plant parasites. Credit Alex Wild photo Usage Restrictions Contact Alex Wild at alwild@myrmecos.net for reprint permission. http://www.alexanderwild.com/gallery/1454574 License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.