La Jarretadera, the Ant Tree
by Biol. Oscar S. Aranda Mena |
There is a tree in our area that is hated by the locals but admired by scientists throughout the world. An army of aggressive ants defends it against anyone who dares even to touch it. This symbiotic relationship between trees and ants has made them inseparable allies, an admirable example of cooperation in nature. What Is La Jarretadera? The jarretadera is a type of acacia tree, of which there are more than 750 different species. Many form part of the landscape in Africa and semi-humid areas in Mexico. They are found in the tropical areas from Mexico to Central America, where they have evolved along with a certain species of ants, which have become a vital part the tree. Their alliance provides mutual benefits, not possible if they lived separately. The jarretadera has large thorns in the shape of a “V” that are home to the ants. The tree also has special organs in the leaves and stems that produce nectar for them to eat. When the tree grows new thorns, the ants build small burrows in them. Distributed along the length and width of the tree, they are always ready to react to vibrations caused by anything foreign. A Powerful Partner The benefits the ants receive from the jarretadera make them extremely loyal and they provide the tree powerful and faithful security 24 hours a day, defending it from any insect, bird or mammal that dares to touch one of its leaves. They even eliminate any plant that tries to grow within a several-meter radius and destroy any type of mushroom that may threaten the health of the tree. Enforcing the RulesUntil recently, scientists were unable to understand the complex relationship that existed between these very different beings and were unaware how insects were prevented from interfering in the pollination of the tree’s flowers by other insects while under such constant surveillance by the ants. If the flowers are not pollinated, the tree will not produce seeds and will be unable to reproduce. A few years ago, a group of scientists discovered that the tree’s flowers produce a natural ant repellent allows pollinating insects such as bees to perform their work in peace. An Example to Follow It’s not surprising that people consider this tree (and its ants) a nuisance, since it does not provide shade or shelter but rather inflicts painful jabs of its thorns at anyone who may brush against it. Nonetheless, the deep relationship and understanding between species of different kingdoms has scientists intrigued. They now are trying to decipher the chemical composition that the flowers produce in an effort to create a natural insect repellent that is environmentally friendly. This type of tree is currently being eliminated from areas of human influence. For example, a township in our area was named for this abundant tree before the 19th century, but today has no more of these trees, and few residents even know the origin of its name. It may be considered an annoying and misunderstood tree, but as humans we must admire the pact that nature sealed between these two magnificent species. |
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