Project Objectives:

This study will examine the role of pollinator sharing in conferring resiliency to Ficus botryocarpa and Ficus linearifolia tree populations.

Specifically, we will explore four different aspects of pollinator sharing between Ficus botryocarpa and Ficus linearifolia.

Specific Objectives:

1. Determine the genetic identity of the fig trees (F. botryocarpa and F. linearifolia) and the pollinator C. corneri

2. Characterize the receptive fig scent of F. botryocarpa and F. linearifolia

3. Assess the morphological variation of C. corneri wasps associated with F. botryocarpa and F. linearifolia

4. Test the lifespan of C. corneri wasps in varying temperature, humidity, and seasonal conditions

Abstract: 

The Philippines is among the countries with the highest deforestation rates in the world. Heightened deforestation rates bring with it increased rates of landslides and flash floods during the wet season, and extreme drought during the other. These further cascade to food and water insecurity, and biodiversity loss.

Among our native trees, fig trees may prove to be among the most crucial to restoring our degraded forests. Tropical forests will not function without fig species. Fig trees fruit all year round and feed more than a thousand species of frugivores. However, fig trees cannot reproduce without their pollinator wasps. These pollinators are extremely small (only about 1 mm) and, on average, live only for 24 hours. Thus, they are sensitive to even minute changes in temperature and humidity.

Through this project, we will explore the mutualism between Ficus botryocarpa and Ficus linearifolia, and their shared pollinator wasp Ceratosolen corneri. What aspects facilitate pollinator sharing? Will this flexibility enable the mutualism to adapt easily to climate change? Answering these questions will help us evaluate these trees as potential restoration species. The survival of both the fig trees and the wasps is key to preventing the collapse of our remaining forest ecosystems.