Some species of orchid bear flowers that resemble female bees of a specific species, including in scent. Male bees attempting to mate with these flowers transfer pollen between them, accomplishing the plant's reproduction. Crucially, the orchid produces no nectar; the male bee receives nothing in exchange for the energy expended on each visit.
Based on the passage, which inference is most strongly supported about this orchid-bee relationship?
- A
The bee receives a meal of nectar from the orchid
- B
The orchid is incapable of reproducing
- C
Both species benefit equally from each interaction
- Dcheck_circle
The relationship benefits the orchid at the expense of the bee, even though it does not destroy the bee
Explanation
Orchid pollinated, bee energy spent for nothing supports B. A, C, D contradict the passage.