viscidium

plant anatomy

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July 14, 2026

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The term "viscidium" refers to a sticky pad that is part of the pollinium in certain orchids. This specialized structure is derived from the stigma and plays a crucial role in pollination. When an insect pollinator visits an orchid, the viscidium helps the pollinia (pollen masses) adhere to the insect's body, facilitating their transfer to another flower. This sticky adherence is essential for the reproductive success of these orchids, ensuring that pollen reaches the stigma of receptive flowers. The viscidium is a key adaptation that allows orchids to interact effectively with their pollinators, often through complex mechanisms of attraction and manipulation.123

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orchid
Floral structure
…a sticky pad called a viscidium. In the most advanced genera a strap of nonsticky tissue from the column connects the pollinia to the viscidium. This band of tissue is called the stipe and should not be confused with the caudicles, which are derived from the anther. Orchids that have…
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…a sticky pad called a viscidium. In the most advanced genera a strap of nonsticky tissue from the column connects the pollinia to the viscidium. This band of tissue is called the stipe and should not be confused with the caudicles, which are derived from the anther. Orchids that have…
Read More