The first impression you typically get is "Aren't they pretty!" However, I like to get closer and examine the almost magical levels of complexity that hide beneath that pretty surface.
Take this little fellow I spotted this past weekend.
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)
© 2010 Brent Garnett
Yes, it's pretty but taking a closer look you can see just what an engineering marvel this thing really is. It's a finely crafted reproduction machine.
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)
© 2010 Brent Garnett
If we follow the premise that systems become more complex over time and flowers are just a small microcosm to observe this in, what were the first flowers like? Brute-like styles that clubbed primitive insects with pollen clubs so they fell against the large, sticky stigma pollen receivers?
Now the game is all about subtlety. Luring in the pollinators with bright colors, sweet scents, and soft textures, all for the promise of their delicious nectar.
Sounds like some night clubs... I've heard of, someone mentioned... sometime, a long time ago.
Hey! Look at the time! I've got to get to work. Bye!
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It wasn't until late in the Jurassic period that flowers appeared, only shades of green existed. So where did they come from? When flowers arrived those darn insects showed up making a nuisance of themselves. Probably driving the dinosaurs insane, making one believe their demise wasn't from a meteorite but infestation of buzzing insects! I guess this is a good lesson in needing to take the bad with the good. You can't bask in the light of the sun without creating a shadow. Hey, I just made that up, feel free to use.
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