The evolution of imperfect floral mimicry.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 18508972.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1073/pnas.0800194105 and PMC identifier 2396721.
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Abstract
The theory of mimicry predicts that selection favors signal refinement in mimics to optimally match the signals released by their specific model species. We provide here chemical and behavioral evidence that a sexually deceptive orchid benefits from its mimetic imperfection to its co-occurring and specific bee model by triggering a stronger response in male bees, which react more intensively to the similar, but novel, scent stimulus provided by the orchid.
Medical subject headings
- Bees
- Biological Evolution
- Flowers
- Odorants
- Orchidaceae
- Pollination
- Selection, Genetic