The orchid Ophrys'pollination using sexual deceit is taken as an example of mutualismhere on Meritnation. How can it be mutualism if the wasp species is not benefited in any way, and is in fact at a disadvantage due to sperm loss in the pseudocopulation? (although that can be neglected because the wasp species are mostly solitary and haplodiploid, but still) It seems from the data that the relationship is commensalistic at best. Can anyone clarify? Please correct this.
Dear Student
The interaction falls under mutualism. The wasp do not ejaculate during pseudocopulation and thus do not waste sperms. Orchid derives the benefit of pollination on other side wasp pseudo copulates. The interaction indicates case of co evolution
Hope this information will clear your doubts about topic.
Regards​
The interaction falls under mutualism. The wasp do not ejaculate during pseudocopulation and thus do not waste sperms. Orchid derives the benefit of pollination on other side wasp pseudo copulates. The interaction indicates case of co evolution
Hope this information will clear your doubts about topic.
Regards​