Question

Pollination success will be reduced unless the orchid flower co-evolves with the pollinator. Explain.

Answer 1

Because many orchids are highly specialised, their floral traits (shape, colour, scent, nectar spur length and timing) must match the pollinator’s morphology and behaviour, so pollen is picked up and accurately deposited on conspecific stigmas; this tight match is the result of co‑evolution. If the flower and pollinator do not co‑evolve, visits will be fewer or pollen will be transferred ineffectively (wrong place or incompatible pollen), so pollination success falls.