Flowers of the orchid species *Ophrys bombyliflora* look and smell like female bumblebees. This attracts male bumblebees flying nearby to the flowers. As a result, pollen sticks to the head and abdomen of the bumblebee, leading to pollination. This orchid species is only pollinated by these bees, which is why the species is known as **bumblebee orchids**.

What mode of evolution is represented by this example?

A) Coevolution
B) Punctuated equilibrium
C) Adaptive radiation

I would say A) Coevolution because the two species would evolve in response to one another. Flowers and their pollinators must evolve together. For example, if the flower has a mutation that no longer attracts the bumblebees, it will not reproduce. Then the hummingbird would have to find a new food source.

Answered by sooperfli | 2024-06-10

Answered by jonahcribb | 2024-06-15

The mode of evolution in this example is A) Coevolution, as the bumblebee orchids adapt to attract bumblebees for pollination, influencing their evolutionary paths together. This mutual influence showcases how species can evolve traits that benefit their interactions. The relationship between these orchids and bumblebees emphasizes the interconnectedness of species in ecosystems.
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Answered by sooperfli | 2025-01-24