Template:POTD/2022-09-14
Ophrys insectifera, the fly orchid, is a species of orchid and the type species of the genus Ophrys. It is remarkable as an example of the use of sexually deceptive pollination and floral mimicry, as well as a highly selective and highly evolved plant–pollinator relationship. The plants use scent that mimics female sexual pheromones to attract male wasps, which pollinate the flowers while attempting to mate with them. It is classified as a least-concern species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, but considered to be vulnerable in Great Britain. This o. insectifera orchid was photographed in Niitvälja, Estonia.Photograph credit: Ivar Leidus