# Pollination Syndrome, Florivory, and Breeding System of Satyrium nepalense var. ciliatum (Orchidaceae) in Central Yunnan, China

## TL;DR

This study explores the pollination, breeding system, and insect interactions of an orchid species in Central Yunnan, China.

## Contribution

The study identifies ants as new floral visitors and reveals a mixed breeding system with apomixis predominance in Satyrium nepalense var. ciliatum.

## Key findings

- Pollination syndrome features include bright color, nectar glands, and food hairs attracting flower visitors.
- Ants were identified as new floral visitors, though no substantial pollination was observed.
- The orchid exhibits a mixed breeding system with apomixis being the predominant mode.

## Abstract

Research on Satyrium nepalense var. ciliatum (Lindl.) Hook. f. has primarily focused on populations in Northwestern Yunnan, with limited studies on pollination syndromes and insect behavior. In addition, it is geographically limited in its breeding system studies. Here, pollination syndromes, florivory, and breeding systems of S. nepalense var. ciliatum from Liangwang Mountain (Central Yunnan, China) were investigated through field work, microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and parafin section. It was revealed that the pollination syndrome was possessing out-crossing, such as bright color, a developed rostellum, nectar glands in the spur, and food hairs at the lip base. The color and nectar attracted flower visitors, and florivory was observed. Some flower visitors pollinated their companion species. Ants were identified as floral visitors for the first time in Satyrium, although substantial pollination was not observed. Ants might be potential pollinators. S. nepalense var. ciliatum possessed a mixed breeding system, including selfing, out-crossing, and apomixis, with apomixis being predominant in nature. It is suggested that the pollination syndrome, florivory, and pollination competition would contribute to its mixed breeding systems, particularly leading to the occurrence of apomixis.