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Q28·GS Paper 1 · Prelims 2024

Tree-Insect Coevolution (Fig)

EnvironmentBotany & FloraFactual singleMediumStatic

Question

Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that can pollinate this tree ?

Options

a

Fig

Answer
b

Mahua

c

Sandalwood

d

Silk cotton

Explanation

The Fig tree exhibits a classic example of obligate mutualism and coevolution. Every species of fig is pollinated by a specific, corresponding species of fig wasp, which in turn relies entirely on the fig's inflorescence (the syconium) to lay its eggs and reproduce.

Fig-wasp mutualism is the textbook standard for strict, species-specific coevolution.

Answer: (a).

Question details

Year

2024

Paper

GS Paper 1

Question

Q28

Subject

Environment

Sub-topic

Botany & Flora

Type

Factual single

Difficulty

Medium

Nature

Static

Source hint

NCERT Biology Cl.12 / Fig-Wasp Obligate Mutualism & Coevolution

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