Use the Following Information and Figure to Answer the Question

Multiple Choice

Use the following information and figure to answer the question.
Aphids are hemipterans that suck phloem liquid from plants. Ants are often seen collecting the liquid off the posterior end of the aphid and collecting the liquid that is released from the aphid's digestive system. In an effort to understand this interaction, several researchers measure the survival rates of aphid populations when ants were present and when they were excluded. Their results are shown.
Which of the following conclusions is most consistent with the data?

A) Ants derive nourishment from the aphids.
B) Ants protect the aphids from predators.
C) Ants parasitize the aphids.
D) Ants carry the aphids to a food source.