If imitation is the sincerest
form of flattery, then some orchid-pollinating bees are being snubbed. Rather
than radiating the exact same scent as the local female bees, the orchids mimic
the scent of out-of-town females, a new study finds. The male bees, it turns
out, seek novelty and are more attracted to the scent of girl bees from a
different neighborhood.
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