In a world first, ECU researchers have discovered a plant that has successfully evolved to use ants – as well as native bees – as pollinating agents by overcoming their antimicrobial defences.
In a world first, ECU researchers have discovered a plant that has successfully evolved to use ants – as well as native bees – as pollinating agents by overcoming their antimicrobial defences.
ECU PhD student Nicola Delnevo discovered the trait in a group of shrubs found the Swan Coastal Plain in Western Australia.
Mr Delnevo said ant pollination of plants was incredibly rare.
“Ants secrete an antimicrobial fluid that kills pollen grain,” he said.
Read more at Edith Cowan University
Image: This plants has found a way to use ants for pollination. (Credit: Nicola Delnevo,Edith Cowan University)
