Small Masdevallia with Slug-like Flowers

[ronaldhanko]

I've posted pictures of this species before, but here's another photo of Masd. mendozae. I have a plant that is more yellowish. This is bright orange:

Masdevalia mendozae on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

[isurus79]

Now that is 'sluglike!' Do you know who pollinates this guy or why the flower is shaped like this? Just curious. This is a really cool 'chid!

[bellini girl]

A pretty coloured slug.

[ronaldhanko]

Originally Posted by isurus79

Now that is 'sluglike!' Do you know who pollinates this guy or why the flower is shaped like this? Just curious. This is a really cool 'chid!

I have no idea what pollinates it.

[RosieC]

What a cool flower. Never seen anything like it

[beelady]

The flower is neat. out of curriosity i looked up what would polinate such a flower.. this is what i got.
The orange color and tubular shape of Masdevallia mendozae flowers have evolved to attract hummingbirds, which pollinate them as they search for nectar within the throat of the bloom.The flower is constructed so that the birds head and beak are positioned to pick up and deliver pollen.
""Understanding orchids By William Cullina""

[isurus79]

Originally Posted by beelady

The flower is neat. out of curriosity i looked up what would polinate such a flower.. this is what i got.
The orange color and tubular shape of Masdevallia mendozae flowers have evolved to attract hummingbirds, which pollinate them as they search for nectar within the throat of the bloom.The flower is constructed so that the birds head and beak are positioned to pick up and deliver pollen.
""Understanding orchids By William Cullina""

Hey, great piece of info!! Thanks for the research!

[beelady]

not a problem.. i like looking for things online.. gives me something to do so i dont get into trouble.. lol.