Chemical ecology and pollinator-driven speciation in sexually deceptive orchids

► Sexually deceptive orchids are ideal candidates for studies of sympatric speciation. ► Traits like the pollinator-attracting scent are associated with reproductive success. ► Minor changes in floral scent might be the driving force for speciation events. ► Pollinators act as isolation barriers towards other sympatrically occurring species. ► Hybridization occurs because of similar odour bouquets of co-occurring species.