The high noon ant has been found to have a mutualistic relationship with caterpillar larva of the Miami blue, Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri. The relationship appears more opportunistic in nature, as the ant doesn't actively protect the larvae. Rather, its presence deters predators that would otherwise feed on the larvae of this butterfly species. This ant also exhibits a mutualistic relationship with the cactus, Ferocactus wislizeni. In exchange for nectar from the plant, the high noon ant deters herbivores.
