Phylogeny and codivergence in the fig-fig wasp mutualism : sycoecine and agaondid fig wasps (Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera) associated with Ficus section Galoglychia (Moraceae)

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.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Biological Sciences

Year dc:date.issued

2008

Author dc:creator

• Underhill, Jenny G

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Tolley, Krystal A
• Hedderson, Terry A
• Van Noort, Simon

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/6201

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/6201