Nature is full of extraordinary symbiotic relationships, in which plants and animals have come to work with each other in ingenious ways. One of the finest examples of this is the symbiosis between hummingbirds and orchids. The little brightly colored birds and the exotic flowers have a unique bond that even benefits them both!
Precision of hummingbirds
The hummingbird is known for the speed and precision with which the bird can linger in one spot with its beak. They can stay still in the air due to their way of rapid wing beats. As a result, they are able to extract nectar from flowers without having to hang onto anything. Their long, slender beaks and tongues are extremely well adapted to suck nectar deep from tubular flowers.
Attraction of the orchid
There are thousands of species of orchids around the world. It is one of the largest plant families known for the extraordinary adaptability and beauty of the flower. Many orchids have evolved to attract specific pollinators. Bright colors and complex shapes of the orchid's flowers cause the hummingbird to be attracted to the specific orchid.
An example of an orchid that takes advantage of this attraction is the Prosthechea cochleata. Another name for this orchid is the "shell orchid." By having a unique flower shape and color, but also by hiding the nectar deep inside the flower, the hummingbird is forced to position itself precisely in front of the flower where pollen is applied to their head or beak. The birds then fly to the next flower with this, fertilizing the orchid.
Benefit for both parties
The relationship between these two organisms is a form of mutualism. Both parties benefit from working together. Hummingbirds need nectar as their main source of energy, and orchids provide this energy source. The moment the hummingbird ingests the nectar, it comes into contact with stamen of the orchid. The pollen attaches to the bird, which the bird then transfers to the next flower for fertilization. Thus, the hummingbird provides pollination for the orchid!
Two examples of orchids
Although many orchids depend on hummingbirds for pollination, there are notable species that specifically target these birds.
1. Epidendrum secundum
Also known as the "crucifix orchid," this tropical orchid grows in the neotropics and is often visited by various species of hummingbirds. The long, tubular flowers make it difficult for insects to access the nectar, but the hummingbirds can easily reach it.
2. Masdevallia
These compact orchids, which often grow in cloud forests in Central and South America, produce flowers specially adapted for pollination by hummingbirds. The bright colors and sweet scents are irresistible to these birds.
Conclusion
The fragile dance between hummingbirds and orchids is a wonder of nature. It shows how even the smallest organisms play a major role in maintaining ecological balance in nature. Their collaboration is a wonderful example of how nature works in harmony and how plants and animals adapt to each other in ingenious ways. While orchids provide hummingbirds with nectar, hummingbirds provide the pollination that orchids need for reproduction. A perfect symbiosis!
