This week I got introduced to a new phrase. That is
kleptoparasite. This was part of a scientific article that reported the
discovery of a previously unknown species of beetle in the Costa Rican jungle.
These are tiny creatures that hitchhiked the fighter ants while travelling frequently
as part of moving their homes.
They are stowaways who hide themselves in the bottom of
those ants so well that their body textures and odor mimics that of those ants.
So much so, that the ants are unable to detect the intruders even while
touching with their feelers.
There is a certain advantage when one travels with a large
group of army ants. But protection or free rides are not the only objectives
for these tiny parasites. These creatures also steal from the food stores of
the ants.
While there are others small creatures that has similar stealing
habits, I find these beetles particularly shameless. They exploit the ants to
the maximum.
Ironically, there are so many human beings spread all modus operandi. They come in different shapes,
sizes, color or creed but ride on the support and kindness of ordinary people.
In return they steal from us to amass their own wealth. But unlike those ants
they are extra greedy and do not hesitate to harm their benefactor.
Any similarities with people living and dead involved in the
field of businesses or politics is not coincidental.
I rest my case here.
