The first known case where a parasite causes an animal to imitate a ripe fruit, these ants are packed with parasites that make them appear to be tasty berries that tempt birds to eat them — not good!
Thanks for this interesting example of “co-evolution “. I actually prefer the pollinator stories illustrating a similar idea. Certain bees pollinate ladyslipper orchids and use the nectar for making pheromones that are a requirement to attract a mate. Different species living together over geologic time coevolving to help each other’s survival. Very cool.
The parasites don't hurt the birds at all? The birds just spread their eggs or larvae?
How about parasitic ex presidents? Are they orange 🙄?
Thanks for this interesting example of “co-evolution “. I actually prefer the pollinator stories illustrating a similar idea. Certain bees pollinate ladyslipper orchids and use the nectar for making pheromones that are a requirement to attract a mate. Different species living together over geologic time coevolving to help each other’s survival. Very cool.
Who Knew.?! Thank You, GrrlScientist, you Rock 💯👍💙
Parasites have such interesting, ingenious and sometimes disgusting life cycles. Thanks for the insights into this parasite.