Pollination of Saguaro Cactus by Doves, Nectar-Feeding Bats, and Honey Bees

Science. 1961 May 19;133(3464):1594-5. doi: 10.1126/science.133.3464.1594.

Abstract

In a large cage, free-flying western white-winged doves, nectar-feeding Leptonycteris bats, and honey bees were each effective as cross-pollinators of self-sterile saguaro flowers. Seed production and seed viability were not significantly different in fruit from flowers pollinated by these agents. Pollination is not a limiting factor in saguaro repopulation.