High Resolution JPEG Picture of Ophrys apifera, known as the bee orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the family Orchidaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia Minor, and North Africa. The plant grows to a height of 10-30 cm and has a rosette of leaves at the base of the stem. The stem bears a single flower, or sometimes two or three flowers. The flower is pink or purple with a yellow lip. The lip is shaped like a female bee, and the flower emits a scent that attracts male bees. When a male bee lands on the flower, it attempts to mate with the lip, which results in the transfer of pollen from the male bee to the flower. The bee orchid is an example of a sexually deceptive orchid. These orchids mimic the appearance of other organisms, such as insects, in order to attract pollinators. In the case of the bee orchid, the flower mimics the appearance of a female bee. This attracts male bees, which attempt to mate with the flower. In the process, they transfer pollen from one flower to another, which helps to pollinate the plant. The bee orchid is a threatened species in some parts of its range. The main threats to the plant are habitat loss and over-collection. The plant is also threatened by climate change, as it is a cold-adapted species. [1489601214] stock photo
