Question

Considering the gooseberry flower shown above, what types of cues might attract bees to the plant? select all that apply.

Answer 1

Bees are attracted to the gooseberry flower by its bright colors (especially blue and yellow), a strong scent, tubular shape, nectar guides visible only to bees, abundant nectar, and flowers that open during the day.

Step-by-step explanation:

Various cues may attract bees to a gooseberry flower. These include bright and contrasting colors since bees are drawn to shades of blue, yellow, and ultraviolet. Moreover, a strong and pleasant scent can serve as an attractant, signaling the presence of nectar or pollen. Additionally, the shape of the flower can be an inviting factor; flowers with tubular shapes may encourage bees to enter and search for nectar, which is positioned in a way that promotes pollination when the bee touches the reproductive parts of the flower. Another attractant is the presence of nectar guides, which are visual markings on the petals, usually visible only to bees, directing them to the source of the nectar or pollen.

Lastly, the timing of flower opening is crucial, as bees forage during daylight hours; therefore, flowers that are open during the day are more likely to be visited. The presence of abundant nectar is also important as it provides energy, while the pollen grains offer proteins essential for the survival of bees.

Answer 2

Flowering plants require pollinators to reproduce. There are a diverse range of pollinating species, but insects, particularly bees, are very important pollinators. Flowers have adapted to attract pollinators through nectar, which draws pollinators through its attractive scent. Pollinators typically consume the nectar, and bees use the nectar to produce honey. Some plants have also developed elaborate shapes and bright colours to attract pollinators, often specifically aimed at a single pollinating species.