Randomized trial investigates flower traits and pollinator overlap in South African Satyrium orchids, indicating strong reproductive isolation.
Key Points
To explore how pollination by long-proboscid horseflies affects reproductive isolation among Satyrium orchids in South Africa.
Observed pollinators across different sites and years.
Conducted experimental pollinations and measured floral traits including spectral reflectance and nectar properties.
Analyzed pollinator behavior in relation to floral traits of Satyrium longicolle and sympatric species.
Satyrium longicolle flowers are weakly scented and specifically pollinated by long-proboscid Philoliche horseflies, which do not visit moth-pollinated flowers.
The floral colors and spur orientations differ significantly between Satyrium longicolle and sympatric species, influencing pollinator foraging behavior.
Satyrium longicolle can self-pollinate but primarily relies on horsefly pollination for effective seed production.