Contents
Description
Myrmecodia Beccarii is a species of epiphytic plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This fascinating plant is also known as the “ant plant” due to its unique relationship with ants. It grows in tropical forests throughout Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Tracheophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Myrmecodia
Appearance
Myrmecodia Beccarii has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. It has a bulbous stem that can grow up to 30 cm in diameter, covered with small bumps that resemble warts. These bumps are actually hollow chambers that provide shelter for ants, which live in a symbiotic relationship with the plant. The plant also has small leaves that are about 2-3 cm long and 1 cm wide, and it produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters.
Care Guide
Water: Myrmecodia Beccarii prefers high humidity levels and moist soil. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can also mix in some orchid bark or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Myrmecodia Beccarii prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in temperatures above 60°F (15°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Myrmecodia Beccarii is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests and treat with an insecticidal soap if necessary. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Myrmecodia Beccarii is native to tropical rainforests in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. It grows as an epiphyte, meaning it can grow on the surface of other plants or trees without harming them. The plant’s unique relationship with ants allows it to obtain nutrients and protection from the ants’ colony.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the relationship between Myrmecodia Beccarii and ants?
A: Myrmecodia Beccarii has a symbiotic relationship with ants. The plant provides shelter and nutrients for the ants, while the ants protect the plant from herbivores and remove any debris or dead matter from the plant’s chambers.
Q: Can Myrmecodia Beccarii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Myrmecodia Beccarii can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate humidity and bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I water Myrmecodia Beccarii?
A: Myrmecodia Beccarii prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry.
Q: How big can Myrmecodia Beccarii grow?
A: Myrmecodia Beccarii can grow up to 30 cm in diameter, but its size can be limited by the size of its container or the surface it is growing on.
Related Plants
- Myrmecodia echinata
- Myrmecodia tuberosa
- Hydnophytum formicarum
- Hydnophytum papuanum
References
- Chomicki, G., & Renner, S. S. (2015). Obligate plant farming by a specialized ant. Nature plants, 1(6), 1-4.
- Kurniati, H., & Setiawan, I. (2017). The diversity and potential of Myrmecodia Beccarii in Indonesia. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity, 18(2), 803-810.
- Nakamura, K., Ohashi, K., & Itino, T. (2003). Evolution of obligate plant-ants mutualism in Myrmecodia (Rubiaceae). American Journal of Botany, 90(9), 1286-1297.
