Importance of pollen and nectar in flower choice by hummingbird flower mites, Proctolaelaps kirmsei (Mesostigmata: Ascidae)

摘要: Abstract Proctolaelaps kirmsei (Mesostigmata: Ascidae) is a specialist flower mite that feeds on pollen and nectar in flowers of Hamelia patens (Rubiaceae). We offered mites choice between pairs manipulated H. petri dishes the laboratory, then counted number inside after 1 hour. Relative to with stamens nectaries removed, there were more only stamens, nectaries, both nectaries. When but no versus did not show preference. Mites preferred over those coexisting non-host plant (Heliconia pogonantha; Heliconiaceae) inserted, so identity important choice. These results previous work importance presence can be used by P. discrimin...