Insects associated to the different species of passionflower (Passiflora spp.)

Abstract

This research was carried out to study the frequency, foraging type (nectar and/or pollen) time, and behavior of insects on different species of passionflower (Passiflora edulis Sims flavicarpa flavicarpa Deg., P. giberti N. E. Brown, and P. nitida HBK) (Passifloraceae). It was also observed the size, color, and duration of the flowers. The main insects visitors were Xylocopa suspecta, Trigona spinipes, and X. griscenses, respectively, in three species of passionflower. The Passiflora nitida (72.4%) and P. edulis f. flavicarpa (43.6%) attracted more Xylocopa spp. and P. giberti more Trigona spinipes. These bees collected nectar mainly, only Trigona bee was observed collecting pollen. Xylocopa bees collected in species with larger flowers (P. edulis flavicarpa flavicarpa Deg. and P. nitida HBK) and Trigona in smaller flowers (P. giberti N. E. Brown). In P. edulis f. flavicarpa the fruit production was 53.85% with Xylocopa bees and there was no fruit production in flowers not visited by insects