http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/7797197

Variation in floral fragrances and pollinators in the Gongora quinquenervis complex (Orchidaceae) in central Panama

Species of the genus Gonqora (Stanhopeinae: Orchidaceae) are pollinated by fragrance-collecting male euglossine bees (Apidae: Euglossini) . The G. quinquenervis complex contains many species and varieties that differ mainly in flower odor, color, lip morphology, and pollinators. Floral fragrances and pollinators of Gonqora quinquenervis, G. tricolor, and G. gibba were studied at several sites in central Panama. Pollinators were observed in the field. Floral fragrances of 144 plants were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Each morphological species produces a qualitatively distinct fragrance that attracts a unique set of pollinators. Variation also exists within species. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis reveal two fragrance taxa within both G. tricolor and within G. quinquenervis . Both taxa of G. tricolor attract the same pollinator. The two taxa of G. quinquenervis attract different pollinators and appear to be reproductively isolated sibling species. Floral fragrances are useful characters in distinguishing ethologically-isolated sibling species of euglossinepollinated orchids.

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