Which tree is known to be entomophilous?

Entomophilous trees are those that primarily rely on insects for pollination. Among the options provided, willow trees (Salix) are particularly known for this type of pollination. Willows produce flowers that are rich in nectar and attract a variety of insects, including bees and flies, which facilitate the transfer of pollen from one flower to another, enhancing fertilization and seed production.

In contrast, while poplar, oak, and ash trees do produce pollen and can be visited by some insects, they are not as specialized or reliant on insect pollination as willows are. Poplar trees are more often wind-pollinated, meaning they release large amounts of lightweight pollen into the air, relying on the wind to carry it to other flowers. Oaks are primarily wind-pollinated as well, producing acorns and requiring a different reproductive strategy. Ash trees also follow a similar pattern, with pollination predominantly occurring through wind rather than entomophilous means. Therefore, Salix (willow) stands out as the quintessential example of an entomophilous tree, directly linking insect activity with its reproductive process.