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On the calculation of sugar concentration in flower nectar

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Summary

There are several sources of potential error in calculating the concentration or energy value of floral nectar. Errors resulting from confusing data become substantial with increasing concentration. The different methods of expressing sugar concentration are here clarified, and the correct methods of converting from one to the other are provided. Refractometers in use in field studies usually read on a weight per total weight basis; this is recommended as the mode of statement. The perils of oversimplifying conversions from this mode, as is often done, are pointed out.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Zoology, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, Florida, USA

    Alan B. Bolten & Peter Feinsinger

  2. Department of Botany, University of California, 94720, Berkeley, California, USA

    Herbert G. Baker & Irene Baker

Authors
  1. Alan B. Bolten
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  2. Peter Feinsinger
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  3. Herbert G. Baker
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  4. Irene Baker
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Bolten, A.B., Feinsinger, P., Baker, H.G. et al. On the calculation of sugar concentration in flower nectar. Oecologia 41, 301–304 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00377434

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00377434

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