Functional Ecology of Floral Traits and Plant Pollinator Interactions in Two Endemic Scrophularia L. Species from Erzincan, Türkiye

Plant–pollinator interactions are fundamental to reproductive success, yet remain understudied in the Turkish ecological context, particularly for endemic species. This study investigates pollinator diversity, behavior, and environmental influences in two rare Scrophularia L. species endemic to Erzincan, Türkiye: S. fatmae and S. erzincanica. Field observations conducted between 2019 and 2020 documented floral visitors, visitation frequency, and the role of floral morphology in guiding pollinator behavior. Climatic variables such as temperature, humidity, and wind were also analyzed in relation to pollinator activity. The high-altitude S. fatmae was visited exclusively by Bombus niveatus, which proved effective even under cold and windy conditions, whereas S. erzincanica attracted a more diverse community, including Halictus quadricinctus, Halictus sp., and Lasioglossum pauxillum, the efficiency of pollination was strongly linked to floral architecture; clustered flowers and staminodes enhanced pollinator guidance and cross-pollination. Statistical comparisons further highlighted differences in body size and foraging strategies between pollinator groups. Environmental conditions were shown to significantly limit pollinator activity, with high humidity and low temperatures reducing visitation. Additionally, unexpected warming events accelerated phenology in S. fatmae, indicating potential risks from climate change. Overall, this research provides novel insights into the functional ecology of endemic Scrophularia species, demonstrating how floral traits, pollinator behavior, and environmental variables interact to shape reproductive strategies. These findings contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts and underscore the importance of long-term monitoring under changing climatic conditions.