Biologists from IPB University Explore the Uniqueness of Ant Nests, Flora Typical of Tropical Forest Inhabitants
Ant nest plants are not just unique flora known for their symbiotic relationship with ants. More than that, these plants play a role in maintaining the balance of the tropical forest ecosystem. This was explained by Dr Nunik Sri Ariyanti, a biology lecturer at IPB University, in her discussion of the taxonomy and ecology of ant nest plants.
Dr Nunik explained that ant nest plants, which consist of several genera and many species, are taxonomically classified within the Rubiaceae family. The two most well-known genera are Myrmecodia and Hydnophytum. “Two Myrmecodia species we have inventoried from Fak Fak Regency, West Papua, are M. jobiensis and M. platytyrea,” she revealed.
Additionally, the IPB University research team successfully collected several herbarium specimens from the Hydnophytum genus, though species identification remains challenging. “We have not been able to identify the species name due to the limited number of specimens,” added Dr Nunik.
As its name suggests, this plant is so named because of its mutualistic symbiotic relationship with ants. “Ant nest plants are often grouped into the category of myrmecophytes, though this is not a taxonomic classification,” she explained. She referred to important studies in this field, such as Huxley (1978) and Huxley and Jebb (1991, 1993), which discuss the morphology, physiology, and ecological relationships between tuberous Rubiaceae plants and ant colonies.
Dr Nunik said that this mutualistic relationship benefits both parties. Ant nest plants have evolved to form special structures that serve as dwellings and even food sources for ants. In return, ants protect the plants from herbivores and even contribute to the provision of nutrients.
“Ants themselves are an important component of ecosystems, especially in tropical forests. They play a role in pollination, seed dispersal, protection, and even the recycling of organic waste,” she said. The presence of ant nest plants and ants as ecological partners creates a complex web of interactions that maintains ecosystem sustainability.
However, Dr Nunik noted that the existence of these plants is highly influenced by environmental conditions, particularly the structure of the forest where they grow. “Like other epiphytic plants, ant nests are highly dependent on their host plants. Disturbances to forest structure will significantly impact their survival,” she explained.
She also mentioned that ant nest plant species are commonly found in mangrove forests. Therefore, habitat destruction, such as that of mangrove forests, poses a serious threat to the conservation of these plants. “If mangrove forests are damaged, I believe this will directly threaten the conservation of ant nest plants,” she said. (dr) (IAAS/LAN)
