Question

The plant-animal interactions often involve co-evolution of the mutualists. Which among the following is a very good example of mutualism and coevolution?

• A. Interaction between phytophagous insects and plants
• B. Interaction between prickly pear cactus and cactus feeding moth
• C. Interaction between fig plant and female wasp
• D. Both a and b

Answer 1

The correct option is C Interaction between fig plant and female wasp

Mutualism is interaction between two different species in which both are mutually benefited from one another.

A very good example of this is seen between flowering plants and their pollinators. Insects are considered as one of the best pollinators. They pollinate the flowers and in turn the flowers provide nectar and pollen as floral rewards. Hence, both species are benefitted.

A very close relationship is found between fig plants and female wasps. It has been observed that a particular species of fig is pollinated by a particular species of wasp only. Hence there is a tight one to one relationship. The wasp lays eggs in the fruits of the fig and uses the seeds to feed the developing larvae. While searching for suitable egg laying sites, the wasp pollinates the flowers of fig plants. This relationship between figs and wasps is so profound that they cannot live independently. This process of mutual evolutionary change that occurs between two species as they interact with one another is called coevolution. Fig plants and wasps are a very good example of coevolution.

Phytophagous insects feed on the plant sap and other plant parts. It is an example of predation.

The cactus feeding moth is a predator of the prickly pear cactus.

So, option c is correct.