Observations on non-Hymenoptera flower visitors of Adonis vernalis L.
Abstract
The pollinators of Adonis vernalis L. flowers were studied in the spring of 2017 and 2018 at two sites (Szentkirályszabadja and Csatár hill) in Veszprém county, Hungary. In this paper, observations of non-Aculeata species are reported only, as data for Aculeata flower visitors were published earlier. Altogether 68 insects were collected during our study. Tropinota hirta was the most abundant species, representing 43% of all flower visitations. Coleoptera was the most abundant order (58%), followed by Heteroptera (22%) and Diptera (19%). Mating of Heteroptera species (Pyrrhocoris apterus and Lygaeus equestris) and sleeping Coleoptera species (Coccinella septempunctata) have been observed in the flowers as well, that confirms the combined functions of flowers. The role of fly species in pollination is definitely small as they were always found on petals (and not on the reproductive organs of the flowers). From the representatives of the Diptera order, Bombylius major touched the flowers only for seconds, so it has probably no role in the pollination of the species. Adonis vernalis shows incomplete protogyny (self- and cross-pollination occurs as well), therefore most of the encountered flower visiting species can take part in the pollination as they can carry the pollen of the same plant to the stigma while moving in the flower. Accordingly, the presence of pollinators is necessary for the reproductive success of A. vernalis. The study of pollinator species is important from a nature conservation aspect. The development and implementation of proper conservation strategies help to increase species and habitat diversity for pollinators.
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