myrmecochorous

Myrmecochorous refers to seeds or fruits that have elaiosomes, which are fleshy, oil-rich appendages that attract ants. Ants are known to collect these seeds, not for consumption of the seed itself, but for the elaiosome. Once the ants return to their nests, they remove and eat the elaiosome, discarding the seed nearby. This process is a form of myrmecochory, a type of zoochory or seed dispersal by animals.

The elaiosomes are vital for myrmecochory. They typically contain lipids, proteins, and amino acids, making them a valuable food source for ants. The seeds are often similar in size and shape to other food items ants collect, making them easily mistaken for prey or food stores. The benefit to the plant lies in the dispersal of its seeds away from the parent plant. This reduces competition for resources and provides an advantage in colonization.

Myrmecochory is a widespread phenomenon, particularly in certain ecosystems like the Mediterranean, Australia, and the Americas. Many plant families, including Acacia, Euphorbia, and Viola, have species that are myrmecochorous. The specific ants involved and the types of elaiosomes vary greatly, contributing to the diversity of this dispersal strategy. The presence of elaiosomes can influence the germination rate and survival of seeds, as they are often deposited in nutrient-rich soil within ant nests.