Spatial-temporal variations in pollen load

We examined the variations in conspecific (CP) and heterospecific (HP) pollen loads on stigmas across 19 co-flowering species in six sub-alpine meadow communities over four consecutive years. Species identity significantly influences pollen deposition variations, accounting for most variance in both CP and HP. Species traits, independent of phylogenetic signals, are key in varying heterospecific pollen proportions (HP%). Species with higher heterospecific pollen proportions show more consistent exposure across individuals, unlike those with lower proportions, who experience greater variability.