Windbestuivers

Windbestuivers refers to plants that rely on wind to transfer pollen from male to female flowers. In botanical terminology this mode of pollination is called anemophily. Windbestuivers are especially common in open habitats and across many temperate species.

The mechanism involves producing large quantities of lightweight, dry pollen that can be carried by air currents. Flowers tend to be inconspicuous and lack nectar or strong fragrances. Male flowers are often organized in catkins or spikes, while female flowers have receptive stigmas that may be large or feathery to capture pollen efficiently. Pollination often requires synchronization between male and female flowering and can occur over long distances.

Plant groups and examples: Grasses (Poaceae) such as wheat, barley, and maize are classic wind-pollinated crops. Many trees and shrubs rely on wind: oaks (Quercus), birches (Betula), alders (Alnus), willows (Salix), poplars (Populus) and hazels (Corylus), among others. Conifers also commonly use wind pollination. These plants typically invest in pollen production rather than attractant floral rewards aimed at animals.

Ecology and evolution: Wind pollination is advantageous in open, windy environments and reduces dependence on animal pollinators. It often entails high pollen output and a trade-off with pollination efficiency, as pollen can drift far and produce significant gene flow. It can also contribute to human health concerns due to pollen allergies.

Human relevance: For agriculture and ecology, understanding wind pollination informs crop breeding and management of cereal crops and forest species, contrasting with biotic pollination by insects and birds that rely on different floral traits.