A symbiotic relationship with fungi gives lac insects their crimson hue, finds IISc study
Dried Lac Dye and clothes being dyed using Lac dye

The study from IISc found a previously unidentified yeast-like symbiont inside the lac insect Kerria lacca, which gives the insect its distinctive red colour and, may also provide other nutrients in return for shelter.

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Suma Mani

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I’m a doctoral researcher at the University of Sheffield, UK, working on bush encroachment in the savannas of South Africa. I discovered my flair for writing after my involvement with Research Matters, as a writer. Since then, communicating science to a non-specialist audience has been my ethos.
An avid animal-lover and birdwatcher, I also enjoy travel and exploring local cultures alongside research. The journey as a writer has been the most exciting stage of my career, communicating my own research at various stages.

 

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