UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 25
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 ?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Correct Option: A (Fig)
Explanation: A fig’s pollination depends on specific fig wasp partners; the flower-containing syconium and wasps evolved an unusually specialised mutualism.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Correct-fig wasps are their coevolved specialist pollinators.
B. Incorrect-Mahua flowers are visited by multiple pollinating animals/insects, not a unique fig-wasp equivalent.
C. Incorrect-Sandalwood can be pollinated by several insect taxa.
D. Incorrect-Silk-cotton flowers can be pollinated by birds, bats and other visitors.