Acacia Facts
The Acacia genus is actually one of the biggest groups of trees and shrubs in the world, containing almost 800 species. These trees grow in most temperate, desert and tropical regions and come in a variety of forms. Does this Spark an idea?
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Ants
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Several species of acacia have developed symbiotic relationships with ants. For instance, Acacia verticillata has bright red attachment stalks coiled around each seed. Ants carry these seeds to their nests, dispersing them and growing new acacias.
Giraffes
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African acacia trees are notable for their flat or dome-topped shape, but they don't grow this way automatically. Instead, these trees get their shape when giraffes browse their foliage. Because these acacias contain a nasty-tasting alkaloid, most giraffes eat only a few leaves from the edges or top before leaving.
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Spines
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Most acacia species produce sharp spines or thorns along their trunks and stems. These thorns usually occur in pairs and deter animals from eating the plant. Some species encourage ants to live in their hollowed out thorns for additional defense.
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References
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