A modified petal and stamen dimorphism interact to enhance pollen placement by a buzz-pollinated flower.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Floral adaptations supposedly help pollen grains to cross the numerous barriers faced during their journey to stigmas. Stamen dimorphism and specialized petals, like the cucculus in the Cassieae tribe (Fabaceae), are commonly observed in flowers that offer only pollen as a resource for bee pollinators. Here, we experimentally investigated whether stamen dimorphism and the cucculus enhance pollen placement on the bee's body.

Methods

We used 3-D-printed bee models to apply artificial vibrations to the flowers of Chamaechrista latistipula with their cucculus deflected or maintained in its original position and their anther pores manipulated. After each simulated flower visit, we captured photographs of the artificial bee from four distinct angles. Employing digital i

SUBMITTER: Monteiro TR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11904892 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature