Pollination by insect

What is pollination?

A leaf cutter bee manages to cover itself in pollen. Photo: © D Nelson.

Pollen is made of the male organs of a plant (anthers of flowers) and contains the genetic information necessary for plant reproduction. Pollination is the supply of pollen to the female organs of a plant (the parent of flowers).

Pollen can be transferred to the female organs at the same plant (self-pollination) or a second plant of the same species (cross-pollination). As a result of the pollination of plants produce seeds. Pollen can be spread by wind, water and animal pollinators such as insects, bats and birds.

How important is insect pollination?

It is estimated that 65% of all flowering plants and some seed plants (eg Cycads and Pines) require insects for pollination. This percentage is even greater for economically important crops that give fruits, vegetables, textile fiber and related products. Because the insects are as effective pollinators, plants have developed many ways to encourage them to visit. This has led to some strong associations between plants and insects. www.bugwise.net.au