260305-Suetsugu-Cradle-Illustration (IMAGE)
Caption
In a relationship called “nursery pollination mutualism,” Heterhelus beetles feed on the pollen and mate on the flowers of Japanese red elder plants, in the process pollinating the flowers, and then lay eggs on developing fruits. The plant aborts larva-infested fruits, thus limiting its nutrient investment. However, the larvae survive, emerge from the fallen fruit and burrow into the soil where they complete their development.
Credit
KAWASHIMA Suzu
Usage Restrictions
Credit must be given to the creator.
License
CC BY