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Articles linked to this work by shared authors, journal, and citation graph.

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THE STABILITY OF THE SYMBIOSIS BETWEEN DIOECIOUS FIGS AND THEIR POLLINATORS: A STUDY OF FICUS CARICA L. AND BLASTOPHAGA PSENES L.

Evolution; international journal of organic evolution·2017
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How to be a dioecious fig: Chemical mimicry between sexes matters only when both sexes flower synchronously.

Scientific reports·2016
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Genetic structure and hybridization in the species group of Ficus auriculata: can closely related sympatric Ficus species retain their genetic identity while sharing pollinators?

Molecular ecology·2014
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[Not Available].

Genetique, selection, evolution·2012
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Floral volatiles, pollinator sharing and diversification in the fig-wasp mutualism: insights from Ficus natalensis, and its two wasp pollinators (South Africa).

Proceedings. Biological sciences·2011
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Carbon allocation to volatiles and other reproductive components in male Ficus carica (Moraceae).

American journal of botany·2011
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Field Experiments of Pollination Ecology: The Case of Lycoris sanguinea var. sanguinea
07:19

Field Experiments of Pollination Ecology: The Case of Lycoris sanguinea var. sanguinea

Published on: November 25, 2016

Figs and fig pollinators: evolutionary conflicts in a coevoled mutualism.

M C Anstett1, M Hossaert-McKey, F Kjellberg

  • 1ONRS-CEFE, 1919 route de Mende, BP 5051, 34033 Montpellier Cedex 01, France; CSIC, Estación Biolǵica de Doñana, Avda. de María Luisa s/n, Pabellón del Perú, 41013 Sevilla, Spain.

Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 18, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Fig and fig wasp mutualism showcases coevolution and selection. Some traits involved predate the established mutualistic relationship, offering insights into evolutionary processes.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Ecology
  • Mutualism

Background:

  • Figs and fig wasps exhibit a classic example of species-specific mutualism and coevolution.
  • Understanding the evolutionary dynamics of such intricate interactions is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the evolutionary processes underlying the origin and maintenance of fig-wasp mutualism.
  • To investigate the roles of coevolution and single-partner selection in shaping mutualistic traits.

Main Methods:

  • Review of recent experimental and observational data on fig-wasp interactions.
  • Analysis of the evolutionary origins of specific traits within the mutualism.

Main Results:

  • Observed 'fine-tuned traits' result from both reciprocal coevolution and selection acting on individual partners.
  • Some traits considered adaptations to mutualism were identified as preadaptations, existing prior to the interaction.

Conclusions:

  • The fig-wasp mutualism is shaped by complex evolutionary pressures, including preadaptation.
  • Evolutionary insights can be gained by studying established mutualisms and their historical context.