ORCHIDACEAE
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Large Duck Orchid (open)
Caleana major
Note how it resembles a flying Daffy Duck. The orchid is in the open position. Male sawflies are attracted by the scent of a female given off by the orchid. On entering, the duck's head snaps down shut trapping the sawfly. The sawfly thinks it is engaging with a female and copulates. In doing so it is covered by pollen. The orchid later releases the sawfly to go off on its merry way. A win-win for both plant and insect.
CaleanaCaleana majorFloraLarge Duck OrchidORCHIDACEAEOrchids
457361ozYvonne
on August 5, 2010What an exquisite little bloom & superb capture!