Estudos da flora orquidológica do Estado do Amazonas. I - Descrição e observação da biologia floral de Stanhopea candida Barb. Rodr.

Abstract

This is the first of a series of articles on orchids of the state of Amazonas, and their floral biology. In the present paper, the floral biology of Stanhopea candida Barb. Rodr. was studied. The species was included in the grandiflora group due to its pollination by a "fall through" mechanism. The attractant strategies of the species are elaborate. Pollination, in the vicinity of Manaus, is carried out by Euiaema mocsaryi, as effective pollinator, while Euglossa ignita acts as an "odor thief".