Question

The corpse flower, Amorphophallus titanum, is a special plant whose giant flower only blooms every couple of years and only for 24 hours. Kevin claims that "pollinators such as flesh flies and other carnivorous organisms may be responsible for the pollination and the reproduction of the corpse flower." Josephine claims that "common insects such as bees and butterflies are responsible for the pollination and reproduction of the corpse flower." Who do you agree with? Be sure to state your claim, the evidence from the text, and your reasoning.

Answer 1

The pollination and reproduction of the corpse flower is primarily carried out by flesh flies and other carnivorous organisms attracted to its putrid odor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The claim made by Kevin that pollinators such as flesh flies and other carnivorous organisms are responsible for the pollination and reproduction of the corpse flower is correct, based on the information provided. Flowers that have a decaying smell or an odor of rotting flesh attract many flies, including carrion flies, due to the putrid odor. These flies are attracted to the flower's nectar, which provides energy, and they inadvertently transfer pollen, contributing to the pollination and reproduction of the corpse flower.

On the other hand, Josephine's claim that common insects like bees and butterflies are responsible for the pollination and reproduction of the corpse flower is not supported by the information given. While bees and butterflies are important agents of pollination for many flowers, the corpse flower specifically attracts flies by mimicking the smell of decaying flesh, which is their preferred food source.