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what we learned

The results suggest that pollinators are most attracted to flowers with pollen colors that are hues of “true yellow” (108 and 108 & 115, 109, and 116) as the majority of the bees had pollen baskets filled with such colors. This may be due to the fact that bees have the ability to perceive ultraviolet wavelengths of light, which makes finding nectar and pollen much easier. The majority of bumble bees (Bombus) captured had pollen considered to be darker hues of yellow (121 & 123, and 123), while honey bees typically had either no pollen on them or had darker pollen colors of peach/light orange (1205 and 1205 & 1265). We also found that certain flowers attract pollinators more than others. In particular, purple flowers (Bergamot, Purple Coneflower, and Onion) were found to have the most bees on them. These results may be due to the fact that flowers that are purple, blue, and violet are the most effective at attracting bees according to established research (The Magazine of American Beekeeping, 2016). Overall, our research provided an extensive study of pollen color and its relationship with pollinators, and flower species. With this new data, more bee attracting flowers can be planted and protected to help support pollinator health and conserve dwindling populations.       

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