‘PERSONALITY OF PLANTS 
An Epiphyte which is particularly solici- 
tous for the welfare of its insect allies is the Ant- 
nest Plant, Rubiaceae Myrme. ‘This ingen- 
ious creature not only builds nests but builds 
them made-to-order. Certain enlargements on 
its stem are hollowed out into chambers with 
connecting galleries quite ready for their in- 
tended tenants. All the Ants have to do is to 
move in. The kind that usually enter the 
plant’s service are fierce warriors, Iridiomyr- 
mex Myrmecodiae, with very powerful stings. 
They form a formidable bodyguard. 
Sometimes the Ant warriors of such compacts 
are quite satisfied to accept the free rental of 
their snug quarters as sufficient pay and seek 
their food elsewhere. More frequently, the al- 
liance includes “board and lodging” with the 
plant issuing wages in the form of nectar, sweet 
pulp and other food. 
The Cherry and Vetch are among plants 
which secrete a candy-like substance on their 
stalks which serves as an allurement for Ants 
to climb and establish their homes there. In 
many cases, these excretions are also barriers 
which prevent the Ants from hunting among 
[72] 
