Masquerading as pea plants: behavioural and morphological evidence for mimicry of multiple models in an Australian orchid.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

While there is increasing recognition of Batesian floral mimicry in plants, there are few confirmed cases where mimicry involves more than one model species. Here, we test for pollination by mimicry in Diuris (Orchidaceae), a genus hypothesized to attract pollinators via mimicry of a range of co-occurring pea plants (Faboideae).

Methods

Observations of pollinator behaviour were made for Diuris brumalis using arrays of orchid flowers. An analysis of floral traits in the co-flowering community and spectral reflectance measurements were undertaken to test if Di. brumalis and the pea plants showed strong similarity and were likely to be perceived as the same by bees. Pollen removal and fruit-set were recorded at 18 sites over two years to test if fitness of D

SUBMITTER: Scaccabarozzi D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6266105 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature