Ants: Peonies Protectors

Protectors of the peonies

Each June, peony buds in northern Illinois draw a steady stream of ants, not to help the flowers bloom, but to take advantage of the sugary secretions on the stems while standing guard against would-be pests.

Plant–insect relationship

Peonies do not require ants to open their blooms; instead, the plants produce nectar-like secretions that attract ants, which in turn help deter insects that might damage developing buds. (Source: In Defense of Plants)

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