Flower that can mimic a female insect to attract males for pollination NYT Crossword Clue May 18 2024

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Join us in solving the crossword clue for today’s NYT Mini: Flower that can mimic a female insect to attract males for pollination

Hints

• A diverse and widespread family of flowering plants.
• Known for their intricate and often beautiful blooms.
• Some species have evolved remarkable adaptations for pollination.
• One such adaptation is the ability to mimic female insects to attract male pollinators.
• This strategy lures male insects to the flower, where they inadvertently transfer pollen.
• Orchids exhibit a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
• Found in a variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests to temperate woodlands.
• Highly prized by horticulturists and collectors for their unique and exquisite flowers.

Answer

The Exact answer is ORCHID.

Answer Explanation

The answer for the clue Flower that can mimic a female insect to attract males for pollination is 'ORCHID'. The answer "ORCHID" for the clue "Flower that can mimic a female insect to attract males for pollination" refers to a fascinating adaptation found in certain species of orchids.

Orchids, a diverse family of flowering plants, have evolved various strategies for pollination, including the ability to mimic female insects to attract male pollinators. This mimicry involves the orchid's flower resembling the appearance, scent, or even texture of a female insect, such as a bee or wasp.

Male insects, lured by the perceived presence of a mate, visit the orchid flower and inadvertently transfer pollen, aiding in pollination. This clever adaptation highlights the remarkable coevolution between orchids and their pollinators, showcasing the ingenuity of nature's mechanisms for reproduction and survival.