As a research assistant for the "bee biodiversity and forest livelihood" project supported by Darwin initiative, I was fortunate to witness an extraordinary interaction between two seemingly disparate creatures – ants and lycaenid larvae. While conducting fieldwork at a Cycas circinalis, I noticed a peculiar behavior: larvae of a particular insect seemed to be engaging in a complex exchange with ants. Intrigued by this spectacle, I embarked on a journey to uncover the secrets behind this intriguing relationship.
My research revealed that these lycaenid larvae, members of a diverse butterfly family, have evolved an intricate symbiotic partnership with ants. Unlike their solitary counterparts, these larvae have developed a remarkable ability to communicate with ants, using a combination of vibrations transmitted through the substrate and chemical signals.
The ants, in turn, provide these larvae with a level of protection against predators and parasites. In exchange, the larvae offer the ants a sweet reward – a substance called honeydew, excreted by the larvae' digestive system. This sugary treat serves as an important source of energy for the ants, supplementing their diet of nectar and insects.
This fascinating relationship exemplifies the concept of symbiosis, a mutually beneficial interaction between two different species. Both ants and lycaenid larvae benefit from their association, highlighting the intricate web of interconnectedness that sustains life in our ecosystems. More pictures in the article.
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