Plate 3- 46. The sharply spiked leaves of bromeliads make the growth form easy
to recognize. Photo by John Kricher.
Plate 3- 48. Euphonias, such as this White- vented Euphonia (Euphonia minuta), are frequent nesters in bromeliad clusters. They
feed on various berries, particularly mistletoe, which is the only true parasitic epiphyte, growing into the plant upon which it
attaches and claiming nutrients from the plant. Euphonias are important seed dispersers for mistletoes. Photo by John Kricher.
Plate 3- 47. Bromeliad flowers grow on a
central spike and are usually bright red,
attracting many kinds of hummingbirds.
Photo by John Kricher.54 chapter 3 rain forest: the realm of the plants