What is the relationship between fig and fig wasps?
Fig wasps (Agaonidae sp.) are wasps that pollinate and reproduce inside the fruit of certain species of Fig trees. The female wasp carrying pollen enters the fig fruit through the ostiole and pollinates some of the fig flowers, or galls, meanwhile lays eggs in the rest. The female fig wasp then dies inside the fig fruit. The galls, which were pollinated, turn into seeds over time within the fruit. In 3 to 6 weeks, the eggs hatch after which the larvae begin to feed and grow inside the fruit. The males are first to hatch, who then mate with the females who are still inside the galls. The males dig exit tunnels which are then also used later by the females who carry pollen from mature male galls. This way, the pollination cycle of figs is continued by fig wasps.
Do all fig fruits contain wasps?
Not all fig fruits are pollinated by fig wasps. In the fig trees which are pollinated by fig wasps, the female fig wasp that dies inside the fig fruit eventually disintegrates inside the fruit. There is a lot of ambiguity and discussion over whether the fig fruit or 'Anjeer' can be considered vegan.
What role do fig wasps play?
Fig wasps are crucial pollinators for figs. Moreover, they are a food source for numerous animals like birds, ants, spiders and dragonflies, which are their natural predators.
How many fig wasps are found in India? Where are they found?
34 species of fig wasps are found in India. They are widely distributed in tropical areas, found in urban areas, forests and woodlands with fig trees.
About the Authors
Atmaja Ghosh
