The use of neutron activation analysis in pollination ecology

Neutron activation analysis in pollination ecology was examined with particular regard to external application of indicator elements. Movement of elements between flowers can be detected after external application either to the anthers or, in members of the Asteraceae, to the entire head. This technique is potentially useful in studying pollen flow within and between populations and in detecting flower constancy of pollinators. This technique is advantageous when compared with the use of radioactive tracers because potential health and environmental hazards inherent in the field use of unstable isotopes are eliminated.