9. How the Calotropis Procera Plant Survives the Israeli Desert

Morpho-ecological aspects on the pollination ofCalotropis procera (Asclepiadaceae) in Israel   Eisikowitch, D. Morpho-ecological aspects on the pollination ofCalotropis procera (Asclepiadaceae) in Israel. Pl Syst Evol 152, 185–194 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00989426   The article, published in Plant Systematics and Evolution in 1986, explores the pollination process of the Calotropis procera plant, a member of the Asclepiadaceae family, in Israel. C. procera flowers have evolved to conceal their nectar to prevent theft by ants and to preserve the nectar's moisture. The article highlights the crucial role of two species of carpenter bees (Xylocopa) as the plant's sole pollinators, and it discusses their specific behaviors while visiting the flowers. The study emphasizes the importance of nectar concentration in controlling pollen germination during the pollination process.