The larvae of the butterfly Megisba malaya sikkima feed on the tender leaves of Mallotus japonicus, which bear extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) that secrete honeydew. The larvae are soft and flexible, appearing like gummy candies. In the center of the tail section is a smooth elliptical area from which honeydew is secreted. Acrobat ants climb onto a larva and pat it with their antennae to stimulate it to release honeydew. To ensure a stable supply, ants protect the larva, forming a symbiotic relationship. At the tip of the tail is a pair of retractable tentacle organs with “hydra-like hairs”, which give off a distinctive odor. The likely functions are: 1. To remind the ants to protect the larvae. 2. To inform the ants that honeydew is available. Why do acrobat ants prefer the honeydew excreted by this larva to that produced by the leaves of the Mallotus japonicus? Is gummy candy tastier?