Community Ecology Processes, Models, and Applications

Plate 4Butea monosperma, an important legume from a deciduous forest ecosystem of India, is a keystone mutualist
forming mutualistic associations with some animal species for pollinator services.Butea monospermaalso forms
belowground mutualisms with rhizobia and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Inset, a rose ringed parakeet (Psittacula
longicauda) foraging on the flowers ofButea monosperma; the parakeet is a nectar robber and does not provide any
reciprocal benefit to the plant. See page 182.