What type of symbiotic relationship do the ants and aphids have?

Posted by Keshav Jain on



Some ant species herd aphids in order to have a constant supply of honeydew that the aphids produce. In exchange, the aphids are protected by the ants from other insect predators. Some ant species farm aphids and other insects that feed on sap. The ants herd the aphids along the plant, protecting them from potential predators and moving them to prime locations for acquiring sap. The ants then stimulate the aphids to produce honeydew droplets by stroking them with their antennae. In this symbiotic relationship, the ants are provided with a constant food source, while the aphids receive protection, and shelter.



The bullhorn acacia tree that is native to Mexico, has leaves which lack essential bitter compounds that protect a tree from grazing animals or insects. Ants which live within the hollowed-out horns of the tree (called the bullhorn acacia ants) mount a speedy attack against any animal or insect that tries to harm the tree. The ants are rewarded for their services by the tree with food. In such ‘symbiotic’ relationships, two organisms of different species have intertwined lifestyles.



 



Picture Credit : Google


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