Myrmecochory is dispersal with the help of

Options

A. Birds
B. Snails
C. Ants
D. Squirrels

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Myrmecochory**: Myrmecochory is a specific type of seed dispersal mechanism. It involves the interaction between plants and ants.

2. **Identifying the Dispersal Agent**: In Myrmecochory, the seeds are dispersed by ants. This relationship is mutualistic, meaning both the plants and the ants benefit from it.

3. **Role of Ants**: Ants collect seeds that have a special structure called elaiosomes, which are lipid-rich attachments. These elaiosomes attract ants because they serve as a food source for the ant larvae.

4. **Seed Dispersal Process**: Once the ants collect the seeds, they take them back to their nests. The seeds are then discarded in underground chambers, which helps in the dispersal of the seeds away from the parent plant.

5. **Elimination of Incorrect Options**:
- **Birds**: The seed dispersal by birds is known as ornithochory, so this option is incorrect.
- **Snails**: The dispersal of seeds by snails is termed malacochory, making this option also incorrect.
- **Squirrels**: Squirrels are involved in a different form of seed dispersal known as zoocory, which is also incorrect.

6. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question is that Myrmecochory involves seed dispersal with the help of ants.

**Final Answer**: Myrmecochory is dispersal with the help of ants.

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