An entomologist uses DNA barcoding to identify pollinator species and finds that 45% of 400 insect visits to flowers are by bees, 30% by butterflies, and the rest by moths. If each bee visits 3 flowers on average, each butterfly 1.8, and each moth 2.2, what is the total estimated number of flower visits?

Sun, 03 May 2026 07:21:22 +0000

Title: Unlocking Pollination Secrets: How DNA Barcoding Revealed Pollinator Visitation Rates A recent study led by an entomologist using DNA barcoding technology has shed new light on pollinator behavior in natural ecosystems. By analyzing insect DNA collected from flower visits, researchers accurately identified pollinator species and quantified their contributions to pollination — revealing key patterns in behavior and ecosystem interactions. The findings show that out of 400 recorded insect visits, 45% were by bees, 30% by butterflies, and the remaining 25% by moths. With each bee visiting an average of 3 flowers, butterflies 1.8 flowers per visit, and moths 2.2 flowers per visit, scientists estimated the total number of flower visits across all pollinators. Calculating the Total Number of Visits