NEETZoologyOrganisms and Populations
What is unique about the pollination strategy of the Mediterranean orchid Ophrys?
Options
- AIt offers nectar to attract pollinators
- BIt uses sexual deceit to attract a specific bee species
- CIt relies on wind for pollination
- DIt uses its scent to attract multiple types of bees
Correct answer
B. It uses sexual deceit to attract a specific bee species
Step-by-step solution
Orchids show a bewildering diversity of floral patterns many of which have evolved to attract the right pollinator insect (bees and bumblebees) and ensure guaranteed pollination by it (Figure 11.5). Not all orchids offer rewards. The Mediterranean orchid Ophrys employs ‘sexual deceit’ to get pollination done by a species of bee . One petal of its flower bears an uncanny resemblance to the female of the bee in size, color and markings. The male bee is attracted to what it perceives as a female, ‘pseudo copulates’ wi