This is an exciting project! We work on vanilla planifolia plantations in North-Eastern Madagascar & we have made many observations of ants on vanilla harvesting extra-floral nectar. Our project is called "Diversity Turn in Land Use Science" and the ecologists of our project are currently assessing the biodiversity on vanilla plantations and alternative land-use types in order to define the value of vanilla plantations for conservation. Our PhD student focusing on ants has collected ants via baiting and pitfall trapping. However, the topic with vanilla-ant mutualism is still a mystery to us - however pre-studies are needed to define common pest. However, our vanilla pest damage shows so far, that herbivory is seemingly minor problem. Looking forward to find out more about your project!