Carrion flowers (Stapelia sp. )
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Carrion flowers (Stapelia sp. )
Carrion flowers (Stapelia sp.). These flowers are known as carrions due to their strong and offensive smell which imitates rotting flesh. They are pollinated by insects that would normally feed on dung, corpses and decaying vegetable matter. Decived by the smell into believing food is available, they lay their eggs on the petals
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Media ID 6272733
© DR KEITH WHEELER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Carrion Dicotyledon Flowering Plant Smell Unpleasant Stapelia
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intriguing beauty of Carrion flowers (Stapelia sp. ). These unique flowers earned their name due to their remarkable ability to emit a strong and offensive smell, closely resembling rotting flesh. The purpose behind this pungent odor is to attract insects that typically feed on dung, corpses, and decaying vegetable matter. Deceived by the scent into believing food is available, these unsuspecting insects lay their eggs on the petals. The intricate structure of these carrion flowers is truly mesmerizing. With delicate petals in various shades and patterns, they exhibit nature's artistry at its finest. This botanical marvel not only fascinates botany enthusiasts but also serves as a testament to the wonders of plant biology. While some may find the smell unpleasant, it plays a vital role in ensuring pollination for these angiosperms. By attracting specific insect species with its foul fragrance, Stapelia sp. ensures successful reproduction and propagation. This stunning photograph from Science Photo Library captures the essence of these carrion flowers perfectly - showcasing both their alluring yet repulsive qualities simultaneously. It serves as a reminder that even within nature's most unusual creations lies an undeniable beauty waiting to be appreciated by those who dare to explore its secrets.
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