A Comparison of Seasonal Changes in the Pollen Loads of Nectarivorous Marsupials [Tarsipes] and Birds [Honeyeaters].

Abstract

Pollen loads on nectar-feeding marsupials (Tarsipes) and honeyeater birds were monitored for a year at a site on the south coast of Western Australia. Birds carried more pollen grains than the mammals. Both groups carried the same pollens of the main nectar-producing plants in the area and their pollen loads followed the patterns of flowering. Those Banksia species whose pollen was carried most by vertebrates set most seed.