Bumblebee and foxglove hybrid
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Bumblebee and foxglove hybrid
Bumblebee and foxglove hybrid. Worker white-tailed bumblebee (Bombus lucorum) on a flower of a foxglove hybrid. This garden hybrid is Digitalis x Mertonensis. The flowers on a foxglove spike develop at different rates, with younger flowers being male and older ones being female. Bees visit the flower spikes seeking nectar, starting with the oldest flowers and working their way to the youngest. As they do so, they carry pollen from the younger flowers to the older ones, enabling cross-pollination. This bees pollen baskets on its hind legs are filled with pollen (yellow), swept there by the bee from the rest of its body using its other legs
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6360733
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bumble Bee Country Side Cross Digitalis Purpurea Entomological Feeding Flowering Plants Fox Glove Garden Hybrid Pollen Pollen Basket Pollinating Pollination Rural Spring Worker Corbicula Cross Pollination Horticultural Nectar Feeding
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the enchanting dance between a worker white-tailed bumblebee and a stunning flower of a foxglove hybrid. The intricate details of this moment showcase the wonders of nature's cross-pollination process. The foxglove spike, adorned with flowers at different stages of development, offers an intriguing sight. As bees like this diligent bumblebee visit the spike in search of nectar, they follow a fascinating pattern. Starting from the oldest flowers and progressing towards the youngest ones, these industrious insects ensure effective pollination. In this image, we witness how the bee expertly collects pollen using its hind legs' pollen baskets. These vibrant yellow baskets are filled with precious pollen swept from its body by other legs. This ingenious mechanism allows for efficient transfer as it moves from one flower to another. The fusion between Bumblebee and foxglove creates an extraordinary synergy where both species benefit immensely. The bee receives nourishment while inadvertently carrying out essential cross-pollination duties that enable reproduction for these beautiful plants. This photograph not only showcases the delicate balance within our natural world but also highlights the marvels found in even seemingly ordinary garden hybrids like Digitalis x Mertonensis. It serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate and protect our diverse flora and fauna that make up our countryside's rich tapestry.
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