Orchid Mimicry: Insight into a Fascinating Floral Phenomenon

Asian Journal of Biological and Life Sciences,2024,13,2,258-265.
Published:September 2024
Type:Review Article
Authors:
Author(s) affiliations:

Shivani Kondal, L.K. Attri*

Department of Biosciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Punjab, INDIA.

Abstract:

 Aim/Background: Orchids epitomizes an array of mimicry strategies, from seducing carrion flies with the scent of decaying flesh to crafting petals that convincingly resemble leaves to entice ant pollinators. Unmasking the mimicry in orchids reveals a captivating journey that open up an intricate artistry of nature. These deceptive flowers not only survive but flourish, playing a pivotal role in shaping the lives of the creatures they interact with. This present study of mimicry orchids not only sheds light on the fascinating mechanisms of plant-pollinator interactions but also shed light on the power of natural selection in driving the evolution of intricate adaptations. Materials and Methods: An extensive literature study was done to understand and explore the basis and mechanism of orchid mimicry using variety of genuine search engines including Google, Wikipedia, online libraries, books and monographs available online and offline. Results and Conclusion: It was recorded that the orchids mimicry related to varieties of purposes therefore named including Bee Mimicry (Ophrys apifera), Fly Mimicry (Disa uniflora), Wasp Mimicry (Masdevallia varensis), Monkey Face Mimicry (Dracula simia) and Lizard Mimicry (Himantoglossum hircinum) in addition to carries a profound ecological significance. Additionally, orchids generally have specific, often specialized pollinators and disruptions in these co evolutionary relationships can have far-reaching consequences for ecosytems.