Cecropias are known for the mutualistic relationship they have with which creature?
A Deer
B Snakes
C Ants
Not only are Cecropias very popular with animals like sloths, monkeys, and toucans for their fruit and leaves, many Cecropia species have a symbiotic relationship with Azteca ants. The ants get to live in the Cecropia’s hollow stems and eat glycogen-rich food produced at the base of the leaves, and in return they defend the tree from plant-eating predators.
The correct answer is Ants.
The large, silver-bluish leaf in today’s photo is from which tropical tree species?
A Catalpa
B Cecropia
C Sycamore
Cecropias grow extremely fast, by tree standards. On average, they’ll climb about 2.5ft per year and under perfect conditions can grow as much as 10ft (3m) in that time, eventually reaching around 60ft (18m) tall. When dried, Cecropia leaves shrivel into a fist-like form which displays interesting patterns and shapes.
The correct answer is Cecropia.
Examining our photo further, those orangish-red petals belong to the Heliconia rostrata. What undersea creature is it commonly named after?
A Lobster
B Anemone
C Shark
Commonly referred to as the hanging lobster claw or false bird of paradise, the Heliconia rostrata produces distinctive flowers. They grow facing down, which allows hummingbirds to enjoy their nectar. That’s why they’re popular for those looking to cultivate a tropical garden. The flower of the hanging lobster claw is the national flower of Bolivia.
The correct answer is Lobster.