Unraveling Mutualistic Dynamics: Host Specificity and Gene Flow in Ficus deltoidea and Blastophaga sp. Fig Wasps

Abstract

Ficus deltoidea, commonly known as Mas Cotek, is a member of the Moraceae family and originates from Southeast Asia. With 13 documented varieties, it engages in obligate mutualism with the fig wasp (Agaonidae). This study delves into the mutualistic relationship between F. deltoidea and its pollinators, with a specific focus on Blastophaga sp. fig wasps found in F. deltoidea var. deltoidea, within the Ficus genus. The research explores the host specificity of Blastophaga sp. from var. deltoidea across seven different F. deltoidea varieties, aiming to illuminate potential gene flow among these varieties. The methodology entails a thorough examination of figs and interactions with fig wasps in pot-maintained trees, uncovering unexpected discoveries regarding pollinator preferences and entry frequencies. Findings reveal that Blastophaga sp. from var. deltoidea demonstrates a tendency for host sharing, not only accessing var. deltoidea but also var. angustifolia, var. trengganuensis, var. bilobata, var. kunstleri, and var. motleyana. These findings challenge traditional assumptions of strict host specificity and emphasize the intricate nature of mutualistic interactions within Ficus species. This research provides valuable insights into the dynamics of gene flow mediated by pollinators, emphasizing the necessity for further molecular characterization to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these interactions.