Figs and fig wasps: evolution in a microcosm.
Fig wasps are tiny insects that both pollinate and feed upon fig plants. Each species requires the other in order to complete its reproductive cycle. The interaction centres on the unique structure of syconium (fig inflorescence), which provides an intriguing and convenient microcosm for studying the action of both natural and sexual selection.
Cook
J M
JM
Imperial College, London, UK.
Lopez-Vaamonde
C
C
D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D012098:Reproduction; D019685:Rosales / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000502:physiology; D012641:Selection, Genetic; D012744:Sex Ratio; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D014863:Wasps / Q000502:physiology*