Abstract
In a primary forest on the Central Plateau of MadagascarPlectranthus vestitus (Lamiaceae) was principally pollinated by the beePachymelus limbatus (Hymenoptera, Anthophoridae). A species ofStylogaster (Diptera, Conopidae) acted as a co-pollinator. Flower — pollinator interactions are described. The bee performed pollination while hovering, a flower-visit lasting onlyc. 0.3 seconds. Floral features such as shape and size of the corolla tube, and the lack of a landing place suggest specialization to hovering anthophorid beepollinators. Floral biology and pollination in the genusPlectranthus are discussed.
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Nilsson, L.A., Jonsson, L., Rason, L. et al. Pollination ofPlectranthus vestitus (Lamiaceae) by trap-lining hovering bees in Madagascar. Pl Syst Evol 150, 223–236 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00984198
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00984198