Mating Rituals of Pom Poms

On a recent trip down the stairs I was lucky enough to observe and photograph the pom-pom mating ritual.

Here we see the lonely male pom-pom. Note how the male pom-pom is grey in color with two long "feelers" or antennae.






An interesting characteristic of the pom-pom is the additional "neuter" sex. Note that neuters can be of any color, but lack the long, waving antenna of the male or the short, pert antenna of the female. We see a neuter pom-pom passing by the male. Note that the male pom-pom does not exhibit any reaction. Pom-poms react by waving and bunching their antennae.






Ah, we see a female pom-pom approaching. Note her deep purple color. Her antenna are neutral at present.






The male and female pom-pom engage in the age old dance of love. This female does not appear to be very receptive to the male's advances.






Male pom-poms are not easily discouraged, but they know when to move on. This male has spotted a large blonde that strikes his fancy. He will start his courtship ritual again...