Do Figs Contain Wasps?
WouterFigs are a delicious fruit that is often sold as a dessert, jam, or base for desserts. However, figs are not always wasp free, and there is a possibility that they could trigger allergies in people who are allergic to wasp venom. The fig wasp is a stinging insect that has a close relationship with the fig tree.
The fig wasp is a small insect, usually about 1.5 millimeters long. Its body is covered with short spines on the underside of its head. It is adapted to carry pollen. During its life, the fig wasp will break out with pollen from the fig flower.
Female fig wasps are a special type of wasp that pollinates figs. They enter the fruit through a small hole. Once they enter the fruit, they collect pollen in a special pouch. After pollination, they lay their eggs inside the male fig. Then, they fly away to find a new fig plant.
The female wasp’s life cycle is different for each species. Some female wasps lay their eggs inside the ovary of the flower. Others lay their eggs in the male fig.
When a female fig wasp is fully fertilized, she will leave her brother and mother behind. She will then lay her eggs in the ovary of another fig. This process is called symbiosis.
The mature female pollinator wasp often loses her wings. She will then enter the fruit through a small natural opening, depositing her eggs in the cavity. She then dies.
