gs1medium

Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that can pollinate this tree?

  1. A.Fig
  2. B.Mahua
  3. C.Sandalwood
  4. D.Silk cotton
▶ Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: A. Fig

Fig trees exhibit a highly specific mutualistic relationship with fig wasps. Each fig species is typically pollinated by one or a few species of fig wasps, and these wasps, in turn, rely on the fig tree for reproduction. The female wasp enters the fig syconium to lay eggs, pollinating the flowers in the process. This obligate mutualism is a classic example of coevolution where the plant and insect have evolved together to depend on each other for survival and reproduction.

Source: UPSC gs1 2024

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