From the Dark to the Bloom: Bats as Nocturnal Pollinators in Kenya

Bats are important pollinators for many plants in the country. Unlike bees and butterflies, bats are nocturnal creatures, and they use their sense of smell and echolocation to locate flowers in the dark.

One example of a plant that relies on bats for pollination is the baobab tree (Adansonia digitata). Baobab trees have large, white flowers that bloom at night, emitting a strong scent that attracts bats. As the bats feed on the nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, allowing for fertilization and fruit production.

Another plant that depends on bats for pollination is the African calabash (Lagenaria siceraria). The flowers of this plant open at night and have a strong scent that attracts bats. As the bats feed on the nectar, they help to pollinate the flowers and ensure the production of fruits.

Bats also play a crucial role in pollinating many species of cacti in Kenya, such as the Selenicereus grandiflorus. This cactus blooms at night and has large, fragrant flowers that are pollinated by nectar-feeding bats.

Furthermore, many fruit trees in Kenya, such as mangoes, bananas, and guavas, are also pollinated by bats. The bats feed on the nectar of the flowers and inadvertently transfer pollen from one flower to another, leading to the production of fruits.