Pollination Beyond the Usual Suspects: Endemic Neodrepanis coruscans Birds Visiting Tubular Flowers in Madagascar

Abstract

Bird pollination remains understudied in Madagascar. We document the first recorded observation of common sunbird-asity Neodrepanis coruscans (Philepittidae), a Malagasy endemic which is not a true sunbird, visiting and potentially pollinating Bakerella clavata, a plant with long tubular flowers. This interaction suggests a broader, yet overlooked, role for Philepittidae in avian-mediated pollination. Our findings highlight the need for further research on avian-mediated pollination in Madagascar's unique ecosystems.