Life in the Undergrowth (2005)
S01E04 Intimate Relations
Episode Overview
Invertebrates thrive within a complex network of interactions involving plants and various creatures. Remarkable footage captures the minuscule fairy wasp, measuring just a quarter of a millimeter, as it navigates underwater to deposit its eggs in water beetle nests. Certain ant species cultivate trees that provide them refuge, establishing areas known as "Devil's gardens." To eliminate competition, they systematically eradicate surrounding seedlings. Meanwhile, blister beetle larvae cluster at the tip of grass, imitating female bees. When a male bee attempts to mate, the larvae latch onto him. Confused, he moves on, ultimately mating with a true female, allowing the larvae to hitch a ride to her nest where they feast on her stored pollen.
