Ants and aphids have a symbiotic relationship. The aphids produce a 'honeydew' substance which the ants eat. In return the ants protect the aphids from other predators. All isn't entirely equal and fair though. The ants have been known to eat the aphids wings so that they can't fly away.


Formicidae

Aphis fabae

What an interesting post, Jon, and great closeup shot! lgnelson · 2012-06-28: 21:44

great shot but eeewwwwww. where's the spray??? beth0110 · 2012-06-28: 22:06

YIKES!! DancingDolphin · 2012-06-28: 22:06

Fascinating... the diminutive herdsmen tending their flock... I didn't know about the wing thing... still humans have been clipping birds wings for ages too, not so different from ants are we! Annbramwell · 2012-06-29: 02:01

This is a fabulous shot......(Country file Calendar competition winner?) LAZYWASP · 2012-06-29: 02:58

Full of intrigue! marilynx · 2012-06-29: 03:19

The title got me first; I thought you were showcasing a new wave band. But I do admire the patience it took. SM2012 · 2012-06-29: 04:10

This is so great Jon!!!!! danrav · 2012-06-29: 05:18

Interesting and a great macro. I thought the title was facetious and you were going to tell us how to get rid of the aphids. CHOSSID · 2012-06-29: 08:51

Such a good close up!!!!! Ryana · 2012-06-29: 16:30

Tagged: aphids ants