Question
Pollination that occurs by vibrations of bees or wasps
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The type of pollination that occurs by vibrations of bees or wasps is known as **buzz pollination** or **sonication**. This method involves the insect contracting its muscles to produce rapid vibrations while clinging to the flower. These vibrations help to dislodge pollen from the anthers, which can then be transferred to other flowers as the insect moves from bloom to bloom.
Buzz pollination is particularly important for certain flowering plants, such as members of the Solanaceae family (like tomatoes and eggplants) and some species of blueberries. Not all pollinators have the capability for buzz pollination; bumblebees are among the most well-known pollinators that utilize this technique, but some solitary bees and wasps can also exhibit this behavior.
Buzz pollination is particularly important for certain flowering plants, such as members of the Solanaceae family (like tomatoes and eggplants) and some species of blueberries. Not all pollinators have the capability for buzz pollination; bumblebees are among the most well-known pollinators that utilize this technique, but some solitary bees and wasps can also exhibit this behavior.