WHY DO STINGING ANTS THAT PROTECT AFRICAN ACACIA TREES FROM ANIMALS AND INSECTS NOT CHASE AWAY INSECTS THAT POLLINATE THE ACACIA TREES?

Acacia trees harbor guard ants that sting and chase away insects and animals that feed on and damage the tree. The tree, in turn, provides food— a sugary substance—and shelter for the guard ants.

When the acacia trees are in blossom, they need hummingbirds and bees to pollinate them and attract them to the flowers by emitting sweet aromas and producing nectar. Interestingly, the guard ants do not attack them. Why? According to an article in BBC News, the flowers produce fragrances and chemicals that are repugnant to the guard ants.