insectpollinated

Insect-pollinated, or entomophilous, pollination describes the transfer of pollen from the anthers of a flower to the stigma of the same or another flower by insects. Most insect-pollinated plants rely on visitors such as bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, or ants to effect fertilization, often in exchange for nectar or pollen as a reward.

Flowers adapted to insect pollination commonly exhibit attractive traits: bright colors, scent, nectar guides (patterns visible to insects), nectar reservoirs, and landing platforms. They may be bilaterally symmetrical and have exposed, accessible pollen and stigma aligned with the insect's body parts. Some have specialized structures such as spur nectaries or tubular corollas to attract specific pollinators.

Pollinator interactions vary from generalist to specialist. Generalist insect-pollinated plants attract a wide range of visitors, while specialists coevolve with particular pollinators, such as certain orchids with their specific wasp or bee partners. When insects visit, pollen adheres to their bodies and is brushed onto the stigma of subsequent flowers, enabling fertilization and seed production.

Insect pollination is essential for many crops and wild plant communities. It supports fruit set, seed quality, and biodiversity. Compared with wind pollination, insect pollination tends to be more efficient at moving pollen between flowers of the same species, though it is dependent on pollinator populations and behavior.

Threats to insect pollination include habitat loss, pesticide exposure, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Conserving pollinator habitats, reducing harmful chemicals, and promoting diverse flowering landscapes help sustain insect-pollinated plants and agricultural yields.