Many species of epiphytic orchids ooze droplets of honeydew along leaf undersides, new growths and inflorescences. While there are many ecological implications for this behaviour, I wonder if any of you knows a physiological explanation for this phenomenon. I guess it is a physical consequence of inner tissues of developing organs being subjected to high intern pressures, but that is just a personal guess. I would appreciate very much any contribution, especially publications that deal with this phenomenon.
Thanks,
Pedro.
revisaste flora del conosur. Suele tener descripciones muy completas.
The sticky dew of orchids can attract pollinators.
In the worst case scenario for a species, sticky sweet pollen can be the result of pollination by harmful bugs.
Damage by harmful insects. With poor immunity, the flower is attacked by pests, in particular: aphids, scale insects, whiteflies, ticks, worms. They feed on the sap of the plant.
Regards, Sergey Viktorovich Pushkin
Hello Pedro; Many species of ants tend these nectar sources. My starting hypothesis is that the ants defend the plant against herbivores. Best regards, Jim Des Lauriers
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