A South African plant has been found to use an extraordinary combination of fire, bees and ants to ensure its reproduction. The Natal crocus, scientifically known as Apodolirion buchananii, produces a brilliant white flower that emerges from the ground before its leaves appear in early spring.
The flower blooms only shortly after natural fires sweep through its native grasslands. Standing like a beacon among the blackened vegetation, it releases a sweet scent that attracts bee pollinators. After pollination, the developing fruits remain underground for six months, protected until the seeds are mature and ready for dispersal.
Researchers were most surprised to discover that the seeds attract ants by imitating the scent of ant larvae. The ants are tricked into collecting the seeds, believing they are rescuing their own offspring, and carry them back to their nest where they are cared for. The deception becomes apparent only when the 'larvae' eventually germinate into seedlings.
