A multifunctional role for riboflavin in the yellow nectar of Capsicum baccatum and Capsicum pubescens
© 2024 The Author(s). New Phytologist © 2024 New Phytologist Foundation.
| Veröffentlicht in: | The New phytologist. - 1979. - 243(2024), 5 vom: 15. Aug., Seite 1991-2007 |
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| 1. Verfasser: | |
| Weitere Verfasser: | , , , , , , |
| Format: | Online-Aufsatz |
| Sprache: | English |
| Veröffentlicht: |
2024
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| Zugriff auf das übergeordnete Werk: | The New phytologist |
| Schlagworte: | Journal Article Capsicum bee nectar nectary pepper pollinator riboflavin vitamin B2 Riboflavin mehr... |
| Zusammenfassung: | © 2024 The Author(s). New Phytologist © 2024 New Phytologist Foundation. A few Capsicum (pepper) species produce yellow-colored floral nectar, but the chemical identity and biological function of the yellow pigment are unknown. A combination of analytical biochemistry techniques was used to identify the pigment that gives Capsicum baccatum and Capsicum pubescens nectars their yellow color. Microbial growth assays, visual modeling, and honey bee preference tests for artificial nectars containing riboflavin were used to assess potential biological roles for the nectar pigment. High concentrations of riboflavin (vitamin B2) give the nectars their intense yellow color. Nectars containing riboflavin generate reactive oxygen species when exposed to light and reduce microbial growth. Visual modeling also indicates that the yellow color is highly conspicuous to bees within the context of the flower. Lastly, field experiments demonstrate that honey bees prefer artificial nectars containing riboflavin. Some Capsicum nectars contain a yellow-colored vitamin that appears to play roles in (1) limiting microbial growth, (2) the visual attraction of bees, and (3) as a reward to nectar-feeding flower visitors (potential pollinators), which is especially interesting since riboflavin is an essential nutrient for brood rearing in insects. These results cumulatively suggest that the riboflavin found in some Capsicum nectars has several functions |
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| Beschreibung: | Date Completed 01.08.2024 Date Revised 01.08.2024 published: Print-Electronic Citation Status MEDLINE |
| ISSN: | 1469-8137 |
| DOI: | 10.1111/nph.19886 |