The Hummingbird moth is mostly active at night. They are attracted to a strong, sweet odor. Like hummingbirds, they can remain suspended in the air in front of the flower. They can unfold their tongues to reach into several types of flowers.

Question

Given this information, in three to five sentences, answer the following questions: What is one feature of a flower that is trying to attract the Hummingbird moth as a pollinator?

Considering the information above and what your knowledge from this lesson, would flowers be more reproductively successful if they adapted to more than just the needs of one pollinator, such as the Hummingbird moth?

Answer 1

One feature of a flower that is trying to attract the Hummingbird moth as a pollinator is a strong, sweet odor, which is particularly appealing to them. Additionally, flowers that provide easy access for the moth’s long tongue, allowing it to reach nectar efficiently, would also be beneficial in attracting these pollinators.

Flowers that adapt to meet the needs of multiple pollinators, rather than focusing solely on the Hummingbird moth, would likely be more reproductively successful. By utilizing a variety of appealing features, such as different scents, colors, and shapes, these flowers could attract a wider range of pollinators, increasing the likelihood of cross-pollination and enhancing genetic diversity in their offspring. This adaptability could also buffer against fluctuations in the populations of specific pollinators, ensuring ongoing reproductive success.