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? [2024]

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?

Figs have an obligate mutualism with tiny fig-pollinating wasps (family Agaonidae). It means that a given fig species can be pollinated only by its ‘partner’ wasp species and no other species. The female wasp uses the fruit not only as an oviposition (egg-laying) site but also as a source of nourishment for its larvae, using the developing seeds within the fruit. The wasp pollinates the fig inflorescence while searching for suitable egg-laying sites. In return for the favour of pollination, the fig offers the wasp some of its developing seeds, as food for the developing wasp larvae.

Mutualism is a cooperative interaction between individuals of different species that benefits both participants. In these interactions, two parties reciprocally exchange various ‘goods’ and ‘services’ that they cannot produce themselves, such as nutrition, defense, and nesting space. In some cases, the species are entirely dependent on each other (obligate mutualism) and in others, they derive benefits from their relationship but could survive without each other (facultative mutualism).

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) is a medium-sized deciduous tree, which grows to a height of 16-20 m
It is a multipurpose tropical tree native to South Asia that is primarily cultivated or harvested in the wild for it edible flowers and oil seeds. Sacred to several tribal communities in India; plays a role in festivals and rituals.

Sandalwood (Chandan/Srigandha) is wood from trees in the genus Santalum. Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album) is the only major native sandalwood species in India.
Red Sandalwood/Lal Chandan (Pterocarpus santalinus), though it has the word ‘sandalwood’ in its name, belongs to a different order and genus (Pterocarpus).

Semal, also called kapuk or silk cotton tree, flowers spectacularly in spring and is native to India.
It is known for its distinctive, spiky red flowers and its fluffy seed pods, which contain a cotton-like substance that was once used for stuffing pillows and mattresses.
Semal trees are disappearing from south Rajasthan, launching a cascade of adverse consequences for forests and people in the area.
It is mainly found in moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests, also in the plains
Significance:
- The tree’s bark, leaves, and seeds are utilised in traditional medicine to cure various ailments, including fever, diarrhoea and skin conditions. The wood is used for construction, furniture-making, and other woodworking applications.