Phylogeny and codivergence in the fig-fig wasp mutualism : sycoecine and agaondid fig wasps (Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera) associated with Ficus section Galoglychia (Moraceae)
Master Thesis
2008
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University of Cape Town
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The interaction between figs and figs wasps is idealised as a classic example of coevolution through codivergence and cospeciation. Traditionally, the mutualism has been distinguished by a one-to-one ratio of host-specificity, whereby each species of fig tree (Ficlls, Moraceae) is pollinated by a unique species of fig wasp (Agaonidae, Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera). Recent studies conclude, however, that extreme host-specificity is no longer as ubiquitous as previously considered. Nevertheless, there are many factors that are thought to constrain host-switching events and maintain, to some degree, the host specificity of both pollinating and non-pollinating fig wasps within the fig wasp community. This dissertation investigates the extent of codivergence between the host fig trees of Ficus section Galoglychia, associated agaonid pollinators and sycoecine non-pollinating fig wasps (Pteromalidae, Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera) through cophylogenetic analysis.
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Underhill, J. 2008. Phylogeny and codivergence in the fig-fig wasp mutualism : sycoecine and agaondid fig wasps (Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera) associated with Ficus section Galoglychia (Moraceae). University of Cape Town.