Co-Evolution

Co evolution is the evolution of two or more interdependent species, each adapting to changes in the other. It occurs, for example, between predators and prey and between insects and the flowers that they pollinate. (www.dictionary.com) This relationship between two species allows for their existence. They work together to ensure the survival of the other.

The Bumble Bee Orchid (Ophrys bombyliflora) is a species of orchid that closely resemble a female bumble bee in both looks as well as smell. Because of this, the male bumble bee is attracted to the flower. After landing, the pollen is transferred to the male bumble bee, and because of the position that it sticks to the male bumble bee, it is then passed on to the second orchid's stigma for pollination when the bumble bee lands for a second time.

Lady's or Venus Slippers Orchids are named for the pouch of the flower that looks like a woman's slipper. This pouch serves as the means for pollination. Because of its design, insects must crawl under the pouch to get out after being trapped. During this process they are dusted with pollen to carry on to the next plant for pollination.

Plants are also aided by animals as well as insects. For example, the Kangaroo Paw plant has evolved to cater to the Honey eaters, birds that are attracted to the vividly colored flowers of the plant. This device of attraction helps promote pollination as well. The stem is also sturdy, making it a good perch for the birds while feeding. The Honey Eater's beak has also evolved to fit the shape of the flower for feeding. The plant has no scent, birds have no sense of smell therefore using perfume would be of no use to attract the desired species to the plant.

Co evolution is important to species survival. Without the means of attraction, insects and animals would not be drawn to plants to transfer the pollen to produce more plants. Whether it is the visual, or scent stimulation, or a combination of the two, they both contribute to the procreation. However it is not one sided, the interdependent species also evolves to better fit a particular plant, and the relationship between the two continues.