Acacia Tree: A tree that contains thorns, and it is typically found in Africa. Also known as thorntrees.
Mercenaries: Soldiers that are hired for protection.
Summary:
East African Elephant
Through multiple studies, scientists have proven that the acacia tree, mostly known for its protruding thorns, has been avoided by elephants. Although one would imagine that it would be because of it's giant spikes, it is actually because of the ants that live on the tree. Conducting experiments, scientists set up large lines of branches, some with and some without ants, to see which ones attracted the elephants more. Surprisingly, the elephants actually enjoyed the acacia branch without ants, but they stayed away from the branches that contained ants. Mammalian ecologist Rob Swihart from Purdue Unvierstiy claims that a "tree depends on ants to maintain its population against damage from the largest land herbivore." This article shows the defense mechanisms that plants and animals have adapted.
Ants Protecting an Acacia Tree
Discussion:
Although most believe that elephants are afraid of mice, they are actually intimidated by something much smaller, ants. I chose this article mainly because I did not think that it would convincing, however I actually was. Not only did I learn that it was not fake, I also learned that the Elephants like the tree without the ants, proving that it was not just a tree that the elephants strongly disliked. This issue is providing the Acacia Tree population from decreasing, something that would have happened if the ants were not present. This article relates to life because it showed that animals and plants do adapt, which we are all taught but never see a real life example.
Questions:
Is there a reason that the ants chose to protect the Acacia Tree and not any other tree in East Africa?
How did the elephants learn to avoid this tree?
Why do the elephants not like the ants?
Resources:
Reference Source Web link | Milius, Susan. "Forget Mice, Elephants Afraid of Ants." Science News For Kids. 2010. Science Reference Center. Web. 23 Sept. 2010. ta=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=sch&AN=52939534>. |
| Web Site Web link | Robin, Damian. "China Fuels East African Elephant Poaching." Ban Ivory Wildlife Direct. Wildlife Direct, n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2010. |
| Web Site Web link | Alcock, Katie. "Ants work with Acacia Trees to Prevent Elephant Damage." NBF Genearl Topics. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Sept. 2010. |
