What eats African Welwitchsia?

It's a bit of a trick question! While the Welwitschia plant is an important part of the Namibian ecosystem, it's not really eaten by anything in the traditional sense.

Here's why:

* Tough and Fibrous: Welwitschia leaves are incredibly tough and fibrous. They are not palatable to most herbivores.

* Desert Adaptations: Welwitschia survives in harsh desert conditions, where there isn't much available water or other food sources for animals. This makes it less appealing as a food source.

* Slow Growth: Welwitschia grows incredibly slowly, producing only a few new leaves each year. This makes it an inefficient food source for animals.

However, there are some indirect interactions:

* Insects and Bacteria: While Welwitschia is not directly eaten, insects and bacteria do break down its dead leaves and contribute to the nutrient cycle in the desert.

* Wildlife Shelter: The Welwitschia's unique shape and structure can provide shelter and shade for some small desert animals.

So, while Welwitschia isn't a typical food source, it plays a vital role in the Namib Desert ecosystem.