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The relationship between orchids and insects is complex and very strong. As shown in chapter
Reproduction, most orchid species are dependent on their pollinators to ensure their perennity. During their evolution, orchids have developed very specific strategies that will attract their pollinators by providing nectar, emitting odors attractive by providing shelter or even imitating other nectarous flowers. However, many insects can be observed on the orchids were not pollinators, these opportunists whose size and morphological characteristics are incompatible with pollination, also can come and eat pollen or nectar or simply find a refuge. But the place is not safe because some predators such as the Thomisus may also be on the lookout in the inflorescence to capture insects passing. Well beyond the beauty of flowers can also be found in orchids a natural theater, the observation of which is particularly interesting.
Pages 1, 2, 3 and 4 show various insects and flowers. New pictures are indicated by a sign . Moreover, page 5 shows several pictures of the pollination of Cypripedium calceolus.
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Empusa pennata watching out for preys from the top of Ophrys occidentalis |
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![](../Grand/Dactylorhiza/Dmaculata_ericet&polliniLeMees77_03_06_08S1201S.jpg) |
Bee and bumblebee pollinating D. maculata ericetorum |
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![](../Grand/G_CephaEpiLimo/Erhodanensis&bourdonCrepyCharmieux69_21_06_08D1257s.jpg) |
Wild bee (Macropis sp.) on Himantoglossum hircinum |
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Bumblebee on Epipactis rhodanensis although this plant is autogamous |
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Pollinator on Dactylorhiza fuchsii |
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Bumblebee on Dactylorhiza sambucina, the insect bears several pollinias |
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Bombylus major in stationnary flight, coming close to Orchis militaris |
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The grey flesh-fly Sarcophaga carnaria landed on an Ophrys splendida, as a visitor not a pollinator |