Video file
In this video a native Leioproctus bee is opening a Peraxilla tetrapetala mistletoe bud. It bites the tip of the bud, causing the flower to spring open and expose its pollen and nectar, both of which the bee collects. The main pollinators of mistletoe are bellbirds and tūī, but in some places introduced pests have reduced their numbers. These bees are important for the survival of the mistletoe.
Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi
Reference: Professor Dave Kelly
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