Natural History Wanderings

A Slipper Orchid fakes a fungal infection to attract  pollinators. The orchid, Cypripedium fargesii, has spotted leaves and a rotting smell.  The orchids are perfectly healthy and mimic the fungal infection to attract flat-footed flies, who pollinate the plants.  The orchid is endangered and is found in the mountains of southwest China.  To read more go to Discover Orchid flowers fool flat-footed flies by faking fungus-infected foliage or Wired Science Sneaky Orchids Fake Infection to Fool Flies