Desenvolvimento de módulo computacional para medição morfométrica de formigas Saúvas e extração de características utilizando Processamento Digital de Imagens

Abstract

Leaf-cutter ants, known as saúvas and belonging to the genus Atta, play a significant role both ecologically and economically. In Brazil, these ants are considered one of the major pests, affecting a wide range of agricultural crops on various scales. Environmentally, they are crucial to the ecosystems they inhabit, aiding in nutrient cycling, improving soil aeration and permeability, among other functions. However, saúvas are also regarded as pests in agricultural and forestry contexts. As a result, they have been targeted by chemical insecticides. In Brazil, the species Atta opaciceps, known as the Saúva-do-Sertão or Saúva-do-Nordeste, is endemic to the Northeast region and is the only species found in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. This species is the least studied among Brazilian saúvas (Monte, 2021). The "Prof. José Negreiros" Entomology Laboratory at the Escola Agrícola de Jundiaí (EAJ/UFRN) has been conducting various studies to understand the ecology and foraging behavior of Atta opaciceps, particularly when it acts as an agricultural pest. Understanding the division of labor among the castes is crucial for knowledge of this species in Rio Grande do Norte, as it is essential for the organization of the work performed by saúvas. One study involves obtaining measurements of the mandibles and head capsule, a task that is difficult and time-consuming. The goal of the research is to develop a system that reduces time and errors for a better study.