Duck orchid The leaf is withered at this stage. The plant grows in dry laterite with surface boulders and black/brown pebbles.These little orchids are fascinating, as glands on the top of the labellum (head) "emit pheromones to sexually attract the male wasps; when the insect lands on the glands the labellum flips over, causing the insect to touch one of the pollinia which becomes adhered to its back. When it attempts to mate with another flower an exchange of pollen takes place" FloraBasePhoto: Fred
Paracaleana hortiorum This is a small orchid growing to 6 inches tall. It has a small red heart shaped leaf which sits flat on the ground. Its head or labellum (on the right side) is touch sensitive, so when an insect lands on it, the head shuts itself inside of its body. The insect then has to push past the pollen at the base of the "body" The insect then flies off to another plant and process is repeated. The labellum is then reset waiting for another insect.The "ducks" also go to sleep by putting their heads inside their bodies for the night.
These amazing orchids resemble a flying duck. The head (labellum) is hinged to the column by an elongated claw. When an insect makes contact with the labellum it snaps shut forcing the insect to exit the flower by rubbing against the column and thereby covering it with pollen.
These amazing orchids resemble a flying duck. The head (labellum) is hinged to the column by an elongated claw. When an insect makes contact with the labellum it snaps shut forcing the insect to exit the flower by rubbing against the column and thereby covering it with pollen.