2024 · EnvironmentPrevious Year Question
Q68.
Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that ta pollinate this tree ?
A. Fig
B. Mahua
C. Sandalwood
D. Silk cotton
Answer

A

Explanation

In many species of fig trees, there is a tight one-to-one relationship with the pollinator species of wasp. It means that a given fig species can be pollinated only by its ‘partner’ wasp species and no other species. The wasp pollinates the fig inflorescence while looking for suitable egg-laying sites. In return for the favour of pollination, the fig offers the wasp some of its developing seeds as food for the developing wasp larvae. Hence option (a) is the correct answer.