Myrmecochory

Myrmecochory is a natural seed dispersal process where ants carry seeds away from the parent plant. Many seeds have a nutritious appendage called a elaiosome, which attracts ants. The ants pick up the seeds, take them to their nests, and consume the elaiosome. Afterward, they often leave the seed in their nest or discard it nearby, allowing the seed to germinate and grow into a new plant. This mutually beneficial relationship helps plants spread to new areas and reduces seed predation, while ants gain a food source.