Question

Specialization can be both limiting and beneficial. How would a plant species benefit from a pollinator that only visits the flowers of that plant species?(1 point)
Responses

less competition for pollinators within the species
less competition for pollinators within the species

less competition for pollinators with other species
less competition for pollinators with other species

decreased self-fertilization, allowing for greater genetic variation
decreased self-fertilization, allowing for greater genetic variation

the flowers always having a pollinator

Answer 1

A plant species would benefit from a pollinator that only visits the flowers of that plant species primarily due to **decreased self-fertilization, allowing for greater genetic variation**. This specialization can promote cross-pollination, which enhances genetic diversity within the plant population, potentially increasing resilience to pests, diseases, and environmental changes.