Invasive ant interferes with gecko's role
in pollinating endangered plant
mongabay.com
November 28, 2008
Invasive ants are destroying the symbiotic relationship between a colorful gecko and a critically endangered flower on the island of Mauritius
Hansen and Müller found that the blue-tailed gecko (Phelsuma cepediana) - a species responsible for pollination and seed dispersal of the Roussea simplex shrub - avoids plants that have been colonized by the invasive white-footed ant (Technomyrmex albipes). Colonized individuals have lower seed counts, suggesting that ants are taking a toll on the rare species.
Hansen and Müller led research published last year in American Naturalist revealing the importance of the day gecko in pollination of plants endemic to Mauritius:Neon green gecko key to preventing Mauritian plant extinction (April 17, 2007)
Hansen and Müller found that the blue-tailed gecko (Phelsuma cepediana) - a species responsible for pollination and seed dispersal of the Roussea simplex shrub - avoids plants that have been colonized by the invasive white-footed ant (Technomyrmex albipes). Colonized individuals have lower seed counts, suggesting that ants are taking a toll on the rare species.
Hansen and Müller led research published last year in American Naturalist revealing the importance of the day gecko in pollination of plants endemic to Mauritius:Neon green gecko key to preventing Mauritian plant extinction (April 17, 2007)
Citations:
- Dennis M. Hansen and Christine B. Müller. Invasive Ants Disrupt Gecko Pollination and Seed Dispersal of the Endangered Plant Roussea simplex in
- Matt Kaplan. Invasive ant ruins gecko's sweet relationship. New Scientist 28 November 2008
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