The Velvet-spotted Babel Blue (Azanus ubaldus) is a common and widespread species throughout much of Africa, the Middle East and India and is a member of the second largest family of Butterflies, Lycaenidae.
The Lycaenids are well known for their association with ants, in a relationship that is known as myrmecophily, which literally means ‘Ant love’, and refers to mutualistic associations with ants, though not only by Butterflies.
Perhaps a more recognised or known species to exploit this relationship would be the Aphids (Aphidoidea), also known as Plant Lice. Though certain members of the Lycaenidae family also take advantage of this Aphid/Ant relationship by laying their eggs on plants where Ants tend to large groups or herds of Aphids. The Caterpillars that hatch from the eggs, then feed on the Aphids.
Interestingly, the Ants also protect the Caterpillar’s, as they did the Aphids, and will often carry them to the nest and feed them. In return, the Caterpillar produces Honeydew, a sugary liquid that is produced when the Caterpillars mouth-parts penetrate the Phloem (living tissue that transports nutrients to various parts of a plant).
Perhaps you may have previously noticed the ground underneath a plant or tree being rather sticky and wondered what it is…?
Recent Comments