An epiphytic Myrmecodia ant-plant in an Australian woodland. The swollen base of this plant is hollow, with an intricate gallery of chambers that house aggressive Philidris ants. The ants defend the plant (not very effectively in this case, judging from the holes in the leaves), and provide the plant with nutrients. Iron Range National Park, Queensland, Australia
A cluster of epiphytic Myrmecodia ant-plants in an Australian woodland. The swollen base of Myrmecodia is hollow, with an intricate gallery of chambers that house aggressive Philidris ants. The ants defend the plant and provide the plant with nutrients. Iron Range National Park, Queensland, Australia
Philidris ants spill forth from a breach in their Myrmecodia host plant. Iron Range National Park, Queensland, Australia