Protea and Ant Folktale

R 790.00

Our Protea and Ant scarf, tells the story about thy symbiotic relationship between the Ant and Protea- read below about the very important role the Ant plays in the life of the precious Protea

Proteas, drop their seeds before a fire. These are at risk from predators – mice, canaries, and insects, but each seed comes with an edible attachment  (an elaiosome) which attracts foraging ants. The obliging ants carry the seed down into their underground nest, eat the elaiosome but leave the seed intact. Now the seed has a nice warm, dark and safe place to lie dormant until the heat from a fire propels it into germination. The technique is called myrmecochory and about 30% of fynbos plants use it for seed dispersal.

Size: 120cm x 120cm, our scarves are printed on a light silk/satin fabric, which makes caring for your scarf easy but still gives it a luxurious look and feel.