Abstract:The interaction between pollinating fig wasps (Agaonidae) and their host fig trees (Ficus, Moraceae) is a striking example of an obligate pollination mutualism. The effect factors on number and sex ratio of offspring wasps were studied by using F. hirta Vahl-waps (Valasia javana Mayr) system. The results showed that the community of fig wasps offspring had significant changes in different seasons. The number of pollinator offspring changed caused by non-pollinating fig wasps and foundress interference derived from season. The foundress interference increased sex ratio of offspring fig wasps significantly, but non-pollinating fig wasps had no effect on sex ratio. In addition, the survival time of pollinating wasps at female phase was about 15 h and the development time of pollinating wasps had significant difference between dry and wet seasons, which was long in dry season and short in wet season. Therefore, it was suggested that the pollinators of Ficus hirta had evolved the reproductive strategies to adapt seasonal change in Guangzhou.
