Ecosystems
The Secret Life of Nectar: How Colour and Chemistry Shape Plant–Pollinator Relationships
Have you ever wondered what’s inside a flower? It might look delicate and simple, but inside, they are busy running a secret operation.
Ecosystems
Have you ever wondered what’s inside a flower? It might look delicate and simple, but inside, they are busy running a secret operation.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
A specialised petal in a buzz-pollinated flower acts like a pollen traffic controller, guiding grains to the perfect spot on a bee’s body.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
A new study finds that cities can support more wild bee species by planting a greater variety of flower shapes—not just more flowers.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
A rainforest flower has evolved to look and smell like a pile of dead leaves, convincing enough to trick a beetle into pollinating it.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
A unique South African plant brings together fire, bees, and ants in a clever strategy to ensure its survival and reproduction.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Ecosystems
A deep dive into how the unique floral structures of Bauhinia galpinii have evolved to attract and interact with swallowtail butterflies.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Ecosystems
Discover how subtle hues and clever chemistry help green flowers communicate with bees and flies.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
When Ethiopia’s top predator licks flowers for nectar, it may be helping to shape the future of its Afroalpine ecosystem.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
Discover how orchid bees use surprising, non-floral sources to create perfumes that attract mates in the tropical forest.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Ecosystems
Discover how plants in Brazil’s campos de altitude thrive through the unique combination of wind and animal pollination.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Ecosystems
Explore the complex mutualistic relationship between figs and wasps that supports rich diversity in tropical rainforests.
Victor H. D. Silva ·
Close Encounters
When nectar is hard to reach, these Andean hummingbirds become flower robbers to get the sweet rewards.
Victor H. D. Silva ·