Today's quiz focuses on unlikely pollinators. Let's get started!

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1. This group of insects is one of the first to pollinate flowering plants millions of years ago. They are known to eat plant parts and even defecate within flowers as they pollinate, earning them the nickname "mess and soil pollinators."

Close-up of a large magnolia flower
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2. These pollinators live in social colonies and frequently visit flowers to gather nectar. While they may not be the most efficient pollinators, certain plant species have evolved in tandem with them to aid in their reproduction. Plants pollinated by this group typically grow low to the ground, bear small, inconspicuous flowers, and produce blooms that are positioned close to the stem.

a cluster of plants with small yellow flowers
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3. Some members of this pollinator group have evolved specialized traits, such as the ability to hover mid-air while feeding. Plants pollinated by theses species often feature tubular flowers, vibrant colors and blooms that open during daylight hours.

dramatic red flowers on a tall stalk
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4. True or false? All plant pollination is carried out exclusively by insects and small vertebrates, such as birds and reptiles.

a honeybee in the middle of a bright yellow flower
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5. Plants that rely on this type of pollinator often exhibit adaptations such as producing large quantities of lightweight pollen, lacking scent and nectar, and having small, inconspicuous flowers.

a branch dripping with pollen and young leaves
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