Álvaro Hernández Rivera
The study and conservation of biological interactions are a great challenge for modern ecology. In this project, using innovative methodology, we intend to conserve and understand of one of the most delicate interactions in nature: orchids pollinated by euglossine bees.
We will investigate the current state of the orchid bee community in urbanized areas and surrounding agricultural lands and forests, identifying, and locating populations of possible rare or threatened species and estimating their abundances and survival rates across urban-forest gradients. In order not to affect the populations of euglossine bees, we will use non-lethal techniques (capture, mark, and recapture).
The charismatic orchid bee, Euglossa obrima, carrying pollen from Gongora galeata. © Alvaro Hernandez Rivera.
We will quantify the ecosystem function of orchid bee pollination across urbanization gradients by experimentally measuring the sexual reproductive success of a native orchid species (Gongora galeata) which is obligately pollinated by a single bee species (Euglossa obrima). With the obtained information, we will reintroduce/relocate orchids in suitable areas for their maintenance and reproduction and will create a technical guide.
Finally, this project also will search raise awareness and spreading the knowledge and concern of urban and peri urban dwellers about orchids and their interaction with bees on the Mexican Mountain Cloud Forest. We are also committed to promote actions that allow the conservation of bees, orchids and their interactions through a public photographic exhibition and the publication of a local guide of euglossine pollinated native orchids and their pollinators.
Header: Euglossine bee taking a break after a long flight. © Álvaro Hernández Rivera