Flowering phenology of Mouriri guianensis (Melastomataceae) and its interaction with the crepuscular bee Megalopta amoena (Halictidae) in the restinga of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

A rare crepuscular pollination system was identified in the Brazilian endemic plant Mouriri guianensis, where flowering peaks at twilight to evade less effective daytime pollinators. The study observed that bees, particularly Megalopta amoena and Xylocopa cearensis, exhibit buzz pollination behavior, with M. amoena using its jaws to access anthers. Over 86 bee visits were recorded, with activity concentrated between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. The research highlights the plant's extended anthesis as a strategy to attract specialized pollinators while minimizing interactions with less beneficial visitors.

OLIVEIRA, F. d. S., RIBEIRO, M. H. M., NUNEZ, C. V., & ALBUQUERQUE, P. M. C. d. (2016). Flowering phenology of Mouriri guianensis (Melastomataceae) and its interaction with the crepuscular bee Megalopta amoena (Halictidae) in the restinga of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil. Acta Amazonica, 46(3), 281–290. https://doi.org/10.1590/1809-4392201504853