Flower Petal Structure Help Bees Maintain Its Grip Even When It Is Windy

Flowers need the bees to assist in their reproduction through pollination. Pollination is the process by which pollen is transferred from the anthers of a flower to the stigma of the same flower or of another flower

Bees are primarily attracted to flowers because of their search for nectar. But there are other factors that also stand out. These are the color of the flower, its scent, and the structure of the flower.

Blowing in the wind: How hidden flower features are crucial for bees

As gardeners get busy filling tubs and borders with colourful bedding plants, scientists at the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol have discovered more about what makes flowers attractive to bees rather than humans. Published today in the British Ecological Society's journal Functional Ecology, their research reveals that Velcro-like cells on plant petals play a crucial role in helping bees grip flowers – especially when the wind gets up.

The study focuses on special cells found on the surface of petals, whose stunning structure is best seen under an electron microscope. According to lead author, Dr Beverley Glover: "Many of our common garden flowers have beautiful conical cells if you look closely – roses have rounded conical petal cells while petunias have really long cells, giving petunia flowers an almost velvety appearance, particularly visible in the dark-coloured varieties."

Allergic Patients Should Be Advised Of Anaphylaxis From Bee Pollen Supplement

Bee pollen are pollen granules collected and processed by bees.

It is collected from flowers during pollination. The pollen contains small amounts of minerals and vitamins and is very high in protein and carbohydrates.

The pollen is made by worker honeybees who pack the collected pollen into granules (pollen balls) with added honey or nectar. The pollen is also mixed with enzymes, fungi and bacteria. This results in pollen that is higher in nutrition than untreated pollen and is the primary source of protein for the hive.

The average composition of bee pollen is said to be 55% carbohydrates, 35% proteins, 3% minerals and vitamins, 2% fatty acids, and 5% of diverse other components.

Bee pollen supplements can cause anaphylactic reactions

Although many people take bee pollen as a health supplement, it can cause severe anaphylactic reactions. However, most people are unaware of the risks, states an article published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

A case study in the journal illuminates the possible hazards of ingesting bee pollen. A 30-year-old woman with seasonal allergies but no history of allergies to food, drugs, insects or latex had an anaphylactic reaction after taking bee pollen. She had swelling of the eyelids, lips and throat, difficulty swallowing, hives and other life-threatening symptoms. After emergency treatment and discontinuation of the bee pollen supplements, there were no further reactions.