If you would like to post, you'll need to register. Note that if you have a BCG store account, you'll need a new, separate account here (we keep the two sites separate for security purposes).

Sarajit

Sarajit

New member
Member's gallery
_DSC0948.jpg
You can only see EXIF info for this image if you are logged in.

Certain species of treehoppers release a sugary liquid called honeydew, made mostly from excess plant sap that they consume. Ants farm these treehoppers, much as they farm aphids, for their honeydew. An ant grasps a treehopper and strokes it with its antennae, causing a droplet of honeydew to appear at the tip of the treehopper’s abdomen, which the ant then consumes. Both insects benefit from this mutualistic arrangement. The ants get honeydew, and in return, provide protection for the treehoppers from predators. The plant indirectly benefits from the ants, as well, for if the ants were not there, the treehoppers’ honeydew would fall onto the plant, causing mold growth on fruits and leaves. Eggs, nymphs and adult treehoppers can usually all be found in one location.

Exif: Nikon D7200 | f18 | ss 1/200 | 100 ISO | Tokina 100 mm | diy diffuser on on camera flash.

Words excerpted from Mary Holland's blog (https://www.google.com/amp/s/natura....com/2015/09/22/ants-milking-treehoppers/amp/)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.