Definition:
Pollination is a crucial natural process where pollen from a flower’s male part (stamen) is transferred to the female part (stigma), either within the same flower or between different flowers. This movement of pollen is vital for plant fertilisation.
Pollinators are essential for many plants. Without them, these plants would be extinct because they need them for the movement of pollen. Pollen from the male part (stamen) has to reach the female part of the plant (stigma) so that a plant can fertilize and produce the fruits, seeds and young plants needed to grow the next generation of plants.
Plants can self-pollinate at times but there are dangers for the species’ long-term existence. Self-pollinated seeds are genetically identical to their parents. Cross-pollination, facilitated by pollinators increases plant populations genetic diversity and overall health. This enables plants to adapt to changes and threats and ensures the sustainability of plant populations and entire ecosystems.
After successful pollination, fertilised ovules within the flower’s ovary develop into seeds. The ovary itself transforms into a protective fruit. This cycle ensures the production of seeds and young plants, which are essential for the growth of the next generation of plants.
Because pollination is so important, plants put a lot of effort into attracting pollinators. Plants create beautiful and alluring flowers, which we enjoy as a side-product. Flowers display vibrant colours, intriguing shapes, and enticing fragrances to entice insects, birds, and mammals. Pollinators inadvertently transfer pollen as they seek nectar or food, facilitating the pollination process.
Different flower shapes appelal to different kinds of pollinators. Beetles often pollinate more open flowers while butterflies visit narrow tubular flowers with landing pads. Bees pollinate shallow tubular flowers with landing platforms. Birds pollinate funnel shaped flowers or cup-shaped flowers that have a strong perch support.
Pollinators are a surprisingly diverse group. Invertebrates, birds and mammals (not in the UK) all have important parts to play in the survival of plants. The main groups are:
Ground Insects: Often overlooked, beetles and ground insects play a crucial role in pollination as they explore flowers for sustenance, inadvertently transporting pollen.
Flying Insects: Hoverflies, along with other flying insects like flies and wasps, contribute to pollination while foraging for food and nectar.
Bees: Renowned for their pollination prowess, bees expertly collect nectar and pollen as they move between flowers, ensuring successful fertilisation.
Butterflies: Graceful butterflies inadvertently carry pollen as they sip nectar from flowers using their long proboscises.
Other Pollinators: Bats, birds, and even small mammals participate in pollination, serving unique roles within specific ecosystems.
Hand Pollination: It is actually possible to hand-pollinate plants. In early spring, apricot, nectarine and strawberries require hand-pollination because there aren’t enough pollinators about (due to the time of year). This involves transferring pollen manually using brushes or other tools to ensure fertilization, safeguarding plant species and food production. It is a laborious process done with a delicate brush, one which I’m incredibly happy is only necessary in very select circumstances.
Pollinators play an irreplaceable role in the survival and reproduction of countless plant species. Without the intricate dance of pollination, the vibrant flowers, lush fruits, and thriving ecosystems we cherish would cease to exist. Understanding the significance of pollinators sheds light on the interconnectedness of the natural world and highlights the importance of preserving these essential relationships for future generations.
