Figs Do Absorb Wasps
WouterFigs do absorb wasps, but not all figs contain wasps. Commercially produced figs are not pollinated by wasps. However, wild figs are pollinated by wasps. Wild figs are usually eaten by birds and monkeys.
In fact, figs have evolved to protect their ovaries from wasps. They use a special enzyme called ficin to break down the female wasp’s body. This enzyme re-uses nutrients to nourish the fig. It also breaks down the wasp’s body into protein. The protein is then absorbed back into the fruit.
The process of pollination is very complex. Most plants want pollinators to spread pollen. The fig tree also wants pollinators to pollinate it. In this way, it doesn’t have to produce fruit.
There are two types of figs: caprifigs and ripe figs. Caprifigs produce pollen. These pollen-producing figs have been around for a very long time. They are also used for cheese plates in modern times. The ripe figs are the most popular figs for humans. They are also highly enticing, and humans are usually attracted to them. They also have a very enticing aroma.
Another type of fig is the self-pollinating fig. The self-pollinating fig is one that has no wasp exoskeleton. Some commercially produced figs are specially cultivated to be wasp-free.
The way figs are pollinated is very complex. The fig has an opening called the ostiole. This opening lets the pollinating fig wasp gain access to the florets. In addition, the fig has a bract-lined opening at the bottom of the ostiole. The pollinating fig wasp then crawls through the hole and pollinates the florets.
