Lobostemon glaucophyllus flower being mauled by a bee

Hosting a bee or other pollinator is a necessary social commitment of many a flower. Bent on its business, such visitor can be an intrusive and disruptive force of the delicate floral features. Style and stamens are pushed aside unceremoniously as the bee has its way with this Lobostemon glaucophyllus flower.

When the chances of encountering pollen and nectar are high, the bee’s actions are likely to be vigorous. In the background there is evidence of flower leftovers with nothing to offer anymore.

So convenient to have six feet: some may dangle in the air during a tricky manoeuvre as here while others find grip and traction, allowing for reaching the targeted nectar. Pollen upload or delivery is a mere incidental (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; Manning and Goldblatt, 1996; Bond and Goldblatt, 1984; iNaturalist).