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Stephen G. Compton - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Tritrophic interactions involving a dioecious Fig tree, its Fig pollinating wasp and Fig nematodes
2019Co-Authors: Jauharlina Jauharlina, Rupe J Quinnell, Rina Sriwati, Natsumi Kanzaki, Hartati Oktarina, Stephen G. ComptonAbstract:Abstract Many species of Fig trees (Ficus spp., Moraceae) have nematodes that develop inside their inflorescences (Figs). Nematodes are carried into young Figs by females of the trees’ host-specific pollinating Fig wasps (Agaonidae) that enter the Figs to lay their eggs. The majority of Asian Fig trees are functionally dioecious. Pollinators that enter Figs on female trees cannot reproduce and offspring of any nematodes they carry will also be trapped inside. The biology of the nematodes is diverse, but poorly understood. We contrasted the development of nematodes carried by the pollinating Fig wasp Ceratosolen solmsi marchali into Figs on male and female trees of Ficus hispida in Sumatra, Indonesia. Figs were sampled from both male and female trees over a six-month period, with the nematodes extracted to record their development of their populations inside the Figs. Populations of three species of nematodes developed routinely inside Figs of both sexes: Caenorhabditis sp. (Rhabditidae), Ficophagus cf. centerae and Martininema baculum (both Aphelenchoididae). This is the first record of a Caenorhabditis sp. associated with F. hispida. Mean numbers of nematodes reached around 120-140 in both male and female Figs. These peak population sizes coincided with the emergence of the new generation of adult Fig wasps in male Fig trees. We conclude that Figs on female trees can support development and reproduction of some nematode species, but the absence of vectors means that their populations cannot persist beyond the lifetime of a single Fig. Just like their Fig wasp vectors, the nematodes cannot avoid this routine source of mortality.
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tritrophic interactions involving a dioecious Fig tree its Fig pollinating wasp and Fig nematodes
bioRxiv, 2019Co-Authors: Jauharlina Jauharlina, Rupe J Quinnell, Rina Sriwati, Natsumi Kanzaki, Hartati Oktarina, Stephen G. ComptonAbstract:Many species of Fig trees (Ficus spp., Moraceae) have nematodes that develop inside their inflorescences (Figs). Nematodes are carried into young Figs by females of the trees’ host-specific pollinating Fig wasps (Agaonidae) that enter the Figs to lay their eggs. The majority of Asian Fig trees are functionally dioecious. Pollinators that enter Figs on female trees cannot reproduce and any nematodes they carry will also be trapped inside. The biology of the nematodes is diverse, but is poorly understood. Here, we describe the fate of nematodes carried by the pollinating Fig wasp Ceratosolen solmsi marchali into Figs on male and female trees of Ficus hispida, in Sumatra, Indonesia. Figs were sampled routinely from both male and female trees over six-month period, some of them were extracted to observe the nematodes development and their population inside. Three species of nematodes developed routinely inside Figs of both sexes: Caenorhabditis sp. (Rhabditidae), Ficophagus cf. centerae and Martininema baculum (Aphelenchoididae). This is the first record of a Caenorhabditis sp. associated with F. hispida. Mean numbers of nematodes reached around 120-140 in both male and female Figs. These peak population sizes coincided with the emergence of the new generation of adult Fig wasps in male Fig trees. This study showed that Figs from female trees can support nematode development, but the absence of vectors means that the Figs remain lethal traps for any nematodes that develop in them. Just like their Fig wasp vectors, the nematodes cannot avoid this routine source of mortality. Keywords: Agaonidae, Caenorhabditis, Aphelenchoididae, Ficus hispida, phoresy, vector
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host parasitoid relationships within Figs of an invasive Fig tree a Fig wasp community structured by gall size
Insect Conservation and Diversity, 2018Co-Authors: Melanie J Hatcher, Lillian Jennifer Rodriguez, Yan-qiong Peng, Stephen G. Compton, Xiaoyong Chen, Hui Yu, Rupe J Quinnell, Yan Chen, Ao OuyangAbstract:1. Revealing the host specificity of the predators/parasitoids of invasive species is a prerequisite when assessing the suitability of biocontrol agents, while the host ranges of top predators are likely to vary among communities comprising different species. 2. Ficus microcarpa is a native plant in Asia and Australasia and has invaded in sometropical and subtropical areas. Besides its species‐specific pollinator, its Figs also support many ovule‐galling and parasitoid non‐pollinating Fig wasps. 3. Here, based on a global collection of Fig wasps associated with F. microcarpa Figs, we used path analysis, supplemented by within‐Fig spatial distributions and natal gall sizes to reveal food web structure of its associated Fig wasps and the factors forming host ranges of parasitoids. 4. The Fig wasp community was species‐rich, and parasitoids were far rarer in the plant's introduced range. Parasitoids exhibited some host specificity, and four specific natural enemies of the plant's pollinator were identified with various intensities of effects on pollinator abundance. Parasitoid host ranges were consistent in both ranges of the plant, and mainly restricted by the size and the locations of host galls. No parasitoids were found associated with a unique seed predator. 5. Our results showed how a large number of Fig wasp species partition one host Fig tree's Figs and identified the species that have potential to control the sexual reproduction of F. microcarpa.
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Fig Pollinating Wasp Transfers Nematodes into Figs of Ficus racemosa in Sumatra, Indonesia
2015Co-Authors: Jauharlina Jauharlina, Rina Sriwati, Yusmaini, Natsumi Kanzaki, Stephen G. ComptonAbstract:The fruits (Figs) of Fig trees ( Ficus spp, known as ‘bak ara’ in Aceh), are the source of food for many species of faunas in the forest, including birds, monkeys, orangutans, etc. Pollination within the Figs totally depends on female Fig wasps that belong to family Agaonidae. Fig trees and their pollinating wasps rely on each other to survive. Female Fig wasps are known to transport nematodes into receptive Figs when the wasps enter the Figs to lay eggs. An investigation on the nematodes carried by female pollinating wasps Ceratosolen fusciceps Mayr into Figs of Ficus racemosa was conducted in Sumatra, Indonesia. The Figs on the trees were regularly sampled to determine the presence of nematodes and infer their ecology. The Baermann funnel method was employed to extract the nematodes from the Figs. Eight species of nematodes were recorded from the Figs, two of which are still unidentified. The species found were (1) Teratodiplogaster Fignewmani, (2) Teratodiplogaster sp., (3) Parasitodiplogaster sp. , (4) Schistonchus sp1 ., (5) Schistonchus sp2 ., (6) Mononchoides sp., (7) and (8) two undescribed Diplogastridae species (‘umbrella-like’ species 1 and species 2). This is the most diverse Fig nematode community recorded. The highest nematode populations were routinely found in D-phase Figs, when the new generations of wasps were about to emerge. Details of the ecology of each nematode species are likely to differ, but as a group they did not seem to significantly affect seed and wasp development in F. racemosa Figs
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Between‐species facilitation by male Fig wasps in shared Figs
Ecological Entomology, 2015Co-Authors: Rong Wang, Hui Yu, Rupe J Quinnell, Simon T. Segar, Maximilian Harper, Stephen G. ComptonAbstract:1. Facilitation is recorded from diverse plant–insect interactions, including pollination and herbivory. 2. The significance of facilitation resulting from the behavior of males of multiple Fig wasp species inside Figs was investigated. Female Fig wasps emerge from natal Figs via exit holes dug by males, especially male pollinators. When no males are present, the females struggle to escape and may die. 3. Ficus microcarpa L. is a widely-established invasive Fig tree from Southeast Asia. Its pollinator is absent in South Africa, so the tree cannot reproduce, but two Asian non-pollinating Fig wasps (NPFW) Walkerella microcarpae and Odontofroggatia galili occupy its Figs. Abundance patterns of the two NPFW and the proportion of male-free Figs in South Africa, Spain (where the pollinator is introduced), and in China, where the native Fig wasp community is diverse, were compared to determine the consequences of reduced species richness for insect survival. 4. Female Fig wasps in male-free Figs were found to be trapped, and small clutch sizes contributed to the absence of males in both species. The presence of pollinators in Spain allowed most NPFW to develop in Figs containing males. Far more male-free Figs were present in South Africa, elevating mortality rates among female NPFW. Facilitation of female release by males of other NPFW species nonetheless benefitted the rarer species. 5. Selection pressures in South Africa currently favour greater aggregation of NPFW offspring and/or less female biased sex ratios.
Renee M. Borges - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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how to be a Fig wasp parasite on the Fig Fig wasp mutualism
Current opinion in insect science, 2015Co-Authors: Renee M. BorgesAbstract:The nursery pollination mutualism between Figs and pollinating Fig wasps is based on adaptations that allow wasps to enter the enclosed inflorescences of Figs, to facilitate seed set, and to have offspring that develop within the nursery and that leave to enter other inflorescences for pollination. This closed mutualistic system is not immune to parasitic Fig wasps. Although the life histories and basic biology of the mutualists have been investigated, the biology of the Fig wasp parasites has been severely neglected. This review brings together current knowledge of the many different ways in which parasites can enter the system, and also points to the serious lacunae in our understanding of the intricate interactions between gallers, kleptoparasites, seed eaters and parasitoids within this mutualism.
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How to be a Fig wasp parasite on the Fig–Fig wasp mutualism
Current opinion in insect science, 2015Co-Authors: Renee M. BorgesAbstract:The nursery pollination mutualism between Figs and pollinating Fig wasps is based on adaptations that allow wasps to enter the enclosed inflorescences of Figs, to facilitate seed set, and to have offspring that develop within the nursery and that leave to enter other inflorescences for pollination. This closed mutualistic system is not immune to parasitic Fig wasps. Although the life histories and basic biology of the mutualists have been investigated, the biology of the Fig wasp parasites has been severely neglected. This review brings together current knowledge of the many different ways in which parasites can enter the system, and also points to the serious lacunae in our understanding of the intricate interactions between gallers, kleptoparasites, seed eaters and parasitoids within this mutualism.
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predatory and trophobiont tending ants respond differently to Fig and Fig wasp volatiles
Animal Behaviour, 2009Co-Authors: Yuvaraj Ranganathan, Renee M. BorgesAbstract:The interaction between Figs and their pollinating or parasitic Fig wasps is mediated largely by chemical communication. These Fig wasps are often preyed upon by predatory ants. In this study, we found that predatory ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) patrolling Ficus racemosa trees were attracted to the odour from Fig syconia at different developmental phases, as well as to the odours of Fig wasps, whereas other predatory ants (Technomyrmex albipes) responded only to odours of syconia from which Fig wasps were dispersing and to Fig wasp odour. However, trophobiont-tending ants (Myrmicaria brunnea) patrolling the same trees and exposed to the same volatiles were unresponsive to Fig or Fig wasp odours. The predatory ants demonstrated a concentration-dependent response towards volatiles from Figs receptive to pollinators and those from which wasps were dispersing while the trophobiont-tending ants were unresponsive to such odours at all concentrations. Naive predatory ants failed to respond to the volatiles to which the experienced predatory ants responded, indicating that the response to Fig-related odours is learned. We suggest that predatory ants could use Fig-associated volatiles to enhance their probability of wasp encounter and can eavesdrop on signals meant for pollinators.
Nina Rønsted - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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an extreme case of plant insect codiversification Figs and Fig pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. CousinsAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An Extreme Case of Plant–Insect Codiversification: Figs and Fig-Pollinating Wasps
Systematic biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. Cousins, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Paul HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An extreme case of plant-insect codiversification: Figs and Fig-pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Benjamin Cousins, Paul E. HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant-insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant-insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification.
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Fig and Fig wasp biology: A perspective from the East
Symbiosis, 2008Co-Authors: Rhett D. Harrison, Nina Rønsted, Yan-qiong PengAbstract:The papers in this volume are the result of a meeting of Fig and Fig wasp biologists held in China, July 2006. Here we provide an overview of current themes in Fig-Fig wasp research and introduce the papers in this volume. Figs are pollinated by tiny, highly specific wasps whose larvae feed on a proportion of the flowers they pollinate. Other symbionts, including a diversity of non-pollinating wasps and vertebrate fruit eaters, exploit or otherwise depend on this obligate mutualistic interaction. Recently it was found that a substantial number of Fig species harbour more than one species of pollinating wasp. This has lead to renewed interest in the question of specificity and its co-evolutionary implications. There has also been a substantial increase in the interest in Fig and Fig wasp biology in Asia, not least in China where our meeting was held. Directly following from this is an increased interest in dioecious Figs, which are predominantly Asian. Dioecious Figs offer a very different perspective on the stability of the Fig-Fig pollinator interaction to the better studied monoecious Figs. They have also radiated into a remarkable diversity of ecological niches and, therefore, promise to reveal how Fig-Fig wasp interactions have responded to a variety of different ecological conditions. The study of non-pollinating Fig wasp communities, which are every bit as interesting as the pollinating wasps, has been hampered by difficulties in determining their life-histories. A number of the papers presented here pioneer new methods to address these difficulties, and hence promise to prise open this field. Fig and Fig wasp biology appears on the cusp of rapid developments on a number of fronts, and hence Fig-Fig wasp biologists can look forward with excitement to the coming years.
Astrid Cruaud - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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an extreme case of plant insect codiversification Figs and Fig pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. CousinsAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An Extreme Case of Plant–Insect Codiversification: Figs and Fig-Pollinating Wasps
Systematic biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. Cousins, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Paul HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An extreme case of plant-insect codiversification: Figs and Fig-pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Benjamin Cousins, Paul E. HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant-insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant-insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification.
Lien-siang Chou - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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The Figs of winter: Seasonal importance of fruiting Fig trees (Ficus: Moraceae) for urban birds
Acta Oecologica, 2018Co-Authors: Bruno A. Walther, Lien-siang Chou, Jessica Geier, Anthony BainAbstract:Abstract Birds and Figs are conspicuous members of the tropical and subtropical ecosystems. Because they are easily observed and very speciose, their relationships have been well studied in many areas, and the Figs are considered a keystone resource for many bird species which are efficient Fig seed dispersers. Taiwan has a relatively high endemism rate for many taxa (17% of bird species) but because of its high human population density, most lowland habitats are heavily developed, of which much of it covered by dense urban habitation. To establish the importance of urban Figs for birds, we focused our surveys mostly on three common urban Fig species (Ficus caulocarpa, F. microcarpa and F. subpisocarpa). We observed trees with ripening Figs from July 2013 to December 2016 in order to determine the composition of the Fig-consuming bird community. In addition, we added all the information available in the scientific literature and birdwatchers' observations which we could find. In total, we observed 42 bird species consuming 18 Fig species. The bird diversity in urban areas was non-negligible even during winter. Therefore, there are two reasons why Figs are important for Taiwan's bird avifauna: in cities, the tree diversity is generally low so that Figs provide a stable food resource; and since Figs are fruiting all year-round, they are one of the few reliable resources available during winter when many migrant birds overwinter in Taiwan. Already crucial for many species in tropical and subtropical forests, Fig trees may also be essential for urban birds in tropical and subtropical regions.
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an extreme case of plant insect codiversification Figs and Fig pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. CousinsAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An Extreme Case of Plant–Insect Codiversification: Figs and Fig-Pollinating Wasps
Systematic biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Benjamin R. Cousins, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Paul HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant–insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant–insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification. [Biogeography; coevolution; cospeciation; host switching; long-branch attraction; phylogeny.]
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An extreme case of plant-insect codiversification: Figs and Fig-pollinating wasps
Systematic Biology, 2012Co-Authors: Astrid Cruaud, Nina Rønsted, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Lien-siang Chou, Wendy L. Clement, Arnaud Couloux, Gwenaëlle Genson, Rhett D. Harrison, Benjamin Cousins, Paul E. HansonAbstract:It is thought that speciation in phytophagous insects is often due to colonization of novel host plants, because radiations of plant and insect lineages are typically asynchronous. Recent phylogenetic comparisons have supported this model of diversification for both insect herbivores and specialized pollinators. An exceptional case where contemporaneous plant-insect diversification might be expected is the obligate mutualism between Fig trees (Ficus species, Moraceae) and their pollinating wasps (Agaonidae, Hymenoptera). The ubiquity and ecological significance of this mutualism in tropical and subtropical ecosystems has long intrigued biologists, but the systematic challenge posed by >750 interacting species pairs has hindered progress toward understanding its evolutionary history. In particular, taxon sampling and analytical tools have been insufficient for large-scale cophylogenetic analyses. Here, we sampled nearly 200 interacting pairs of Fig and wasp species from across the globe. Two supermatrices were assembled: on an average, wasps had sequences from 77% of 6 genes (5.6 kb), Figs had sequences from 60% of 5 genes (5.5 kb), and overall 850 new DNA sequences were generated for this study. We also developed a new analytical tool, Jane 2, for event-based phylogenetic reconciliation analysis of very large data sets. Separate Bayesian phylogenetic analyses for Figs and Fig wasps under relaxed molecular clock assumptions indicate Cretaceous diversification of crown groups and contemporaneous divergence for nearly half of all Fig and pollinator lineages. Event-based cophylogenetic analyses further support the codiversification hypothesis. Biogeographic analyses indicate that the present-day distribution of Fig and pollinator lineages is consistent with a Eurasian origin and subsequent dispersal, rather than with Gondwanan vicariance. Overall, our findings indicate that the Fig-pollinator mutualism represents an extreme case among plant-insect interactions of coordinated dispersal and long-term codiversification.