Pollinator Foraging and Flower Competiton in a Game Equilibrium Model

Abstract

Why do flowers produce nectar? A simple answer suggests itself. It is the purpose of nectar to attract pollinators. However, this is not a convincing explanation of the phenomenon. Pollinators are attracted to flowers which provide the right visual and olfactory stimuli. Once a pollinator visits a flower, pollination services are supplied whether nectar is found or not. The magnificent shapes and colors of flowers are advertising efforts, but it is not clear why the product should be delivered after payment has been obtained by successful advertising. In fact, many species of orchids heavily invest in advertising without offering any resource to pollinators.