Blog Post 7: Theoretical Perspectives

There are a few ecological process that my study can expand on. For instance, it highlights the importance of pollinators like bumblebees on flowers. Previous studies have shown there is a benefit of plant fertilization from pollinators compared to self (Sih, 1987). In addition, the topic highlights the importance of sunlight and temperature on pollinator (e.g. bee) activity. For example, during my studies I noticed bee activity decreased at night, shade, or low temperatures. Another avenue of research could show how different pollinators are attracted to different flowering plants perhaps due to flower shape, size, and color. The same study that I examined only consistently observed certain pollinators. Finally, bee activity is also affected by the size and presence of neighboring plants.

Sih, A., & Baltus, M.-S. 1987. Patch size, pollinator behavior, and pollinator limitation in Catnip. Ecology, 68(6), 1679–1690. https://doi.org/10.2307/1939860

 

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