Increased CO2 emission and organic matter decomposition by leaf-cutting ant nests in a coastal environment

► Refuse material from ant nests has short residence time than the leaf material used as substrate. ► Also, we found enhanced CO2 emissions from leaf-cutting ant nests. ► Increased biomass of soil micro-organisms in refuse dumps have been reported. ► We conclude that leaf-cutting ant nests affect the carbon balance in coastal environments.