Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
A Bee's Business

Strobilanthes sessilis var. ritchei is a rare flowering plant endemic to specific regions of the Western Ghats in India which blooms after every 7 years. This species plays a vital role in its ecosystem by supporting pollinators like bees. Bees are crucial for the pollination of S. sessilis var. ritchei, facilitating the transfer of pollen between flowers, which ensures seed production and genetic diversity. The plant's survival is intricately linked to the health of bee populations, highlighting the importance of conserving both the plant and its pollinators to maintain ecological balance in its native habitat.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Lonavala, India
Copyright: © Gaurav Patil