Ants and whiteflies a strange friendship in nature
We are talking about a strange relationship in nature. And on that trunk are some small white insects. At first glance, it may seem that these white objects are plant diseases or mold, but in fact, they are a type of small insect — sometimes called scale insects aphids.
These white insects live by sucking the sap of the tree. They stick to the trunk or leaves of the tree and absorb the nutrients of the plant. After hearing this, you may think that these insects are harmful to the plant. In fact, that is true — because they disrupt the growth of the plant and the plant becomes weak. But here comes the surprise of nature!
The ants nearby are not just roaming around the tree. They are guarding these white insects. But why? Actually, when these white insects drink the sap plant, they secrete a kind sweet liquid, which is called honeydew. The ants love and eat these honeydews. As a result ants take care these white insects — protecting them, driving away predators enemies, so that they can stay safe and produce more honeydew.
This relationship is called mutually beneficial relationship mutualism. Because both parties benefit from it. The white insect gets security and the ants get food. However, while this relationship is part balance nature, on the other hand, it can also create problems in agriculture. Because if these ants protect too many white insects, the plants can be seriously damaged.
We cannot help but amazed by such a wonderful understanding between these small creatures nature. They do not speak, they do not plan, yet there is a kind order and purpose in their behavior. All these small relationships create the balance our environment.
Our power of observation. We often dont notice such examples when we walk around. But if we pay a little attention, we will see that — a row of ants under a leaf, white dots on a tree, or a spider web — all tell the story of nature.
Small animals also depend on each other. Their relationship is not just for survival, but is part of the natural cycle. If we love and try to understand nature, then perhaps we will understand the importance of these small creatures better.
This picture is not just a tree trunk and some ants — it is a reflection a complex but fascinating friendship in nature. So let's be aware these small creatures around us, understand their importance and try to live in harmony with nature.
| Device | Name |
|---|---|
| Android | oppo A95 |
| Camera | 4.71 Mm, f/1.0, (iso100) |
Photography:
Location| Malaysia 🇲🇾🇲🇾🇲🇾
Short by |@aburihan
Link to original community|
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/301184717
Latitude Longitude Map|
https://www.openstreetmap.org/?mlat=3.125902&mlon=101.504848#map=12/3.1259/101.5048