Cheiropteriphily

Transfer of pollen grains by bats is known as chiropteriphily.

Chiropterophily is the transfer of pollen grains by bats.

When bats visit flowers for nectar, edible pollen, floral parts, or while searching for insects such as moths around flowers at night, pollen sticks to their bodies and is carried to another flower, resulting in pollination.

Examples: 

• Anthocephalus / kadam tree.
• Adansonia/baobab.
• Kigelia/sausage tree.
• Anthocephalus chinense.
• Kigelia africana.
• Bauhinia megalandra.

Flowers pollinated by bats show special adaptations that increase the chances of successful pollination.

• Flowers are usually dull-coloured rather than brightly coloured.
• They possess a strong fragrance, which helps attract bats.
• They secrete abundant nectar.
• They produce large quantities of pollen, which may be edible.
• Such flowers may be borne on long stalks.
• Flowers may occur singly or in clusters.
• These features make the flowers suitable for visits by bats, especially in low-light or at night.

1. A bat visits a flower for food or while searching for insects near the flower.
2. During contact with the flower, pollen grains adhere to the bat’s body.
3. The bat moves to another flower of the same species.
4. Pollen is transferred to the stigma of the next flower.
5. Cross-pollination is thus achieved.