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Neotropical soldier flies (Stratiomyidae) reared from Lecythis poiteaui in French Guiana: Do bat-pollinated flowers attract saprophiles?

Abstract:

Two species of Stratiomyidae, Ptecticus nigrifrons Enderlein and Ptecticus sp., were reared from fallen androecia of Lecythis poiteaui Berg (Lecythidaceae) at rain forest sites in French Guiana. Floral aromas were collected by headspace adsorption from the night-blooming flowers. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (GC-MS) identified several sulfur-containing compounds that contribute to the characteristic foul odor of the flowers. Although stratiomyids are thought to be generalist associates of decaying matter of plant and animal origin, we suggest that fetid floral attractants may make L. poiteaui flowers especially attractive to certain flies. This is the first report of Lecythidaceae flowers hosting stratiomyid flies. © Torrey Botanical Club.