Insects and tropical plants are locked in an endless battle, featuring daggers, ant mercenaries, and chemical weapons. But as ugly as the fight can become, there may be a lovely consequence. Some researchers argue that the pests in the tropics play a major role in fostering the overwhelming diversity of the rain forest. For more details, check out my “Matter” column this week in the New York Times.check out my “Matter” column this week in the New York Times.check out my “Matter” column this week in the New York Times.
(Thanks to Elizabeth Kolbert for the headline!)
Originally published January 2, 2014. Copyright 2014 Carl Zimmer.