This illustration showcased the relationship between the flower of the birdwood’s mucuna (Mucuna birdwoodiana) and three of its associated mammal pollinators, including the palla’s squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus styani), masked palm civet (Paguma larvata), and the fulvous fruit bat (Rousettus leschenaulti). The flowers of this giant vine could only be pollinated by mammals that could open the flowers, and in return, the animals get access to the nectar in the flowers. After pollination, the pollinated flowers will turn into large legumes (seed pods) that could reach the size of 45 cm long.
Computer graphic created by Procreate and Adobe Illustrator, 2020.
Commissioned by Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden for an infographic.
Nicole Kit 