Is There Dead Wasps in Figs?
WouterFigs are often associated with wasps. This is due to the fact that the fig contains a special chemical known as ficin. This chemical helps break down the exoskeleton of the wasp. When the wasp dies, its body is absorbed back into the fig.
A fig is a sweet edible fruit that is often sold by itself, in jams, or as the base for a dessert. It is a staple of many Mediterranean countries and is also grown in the U.S. Its fruit is usually sold in supermarkets, where it is treated with chemicals to help ripen.
The fig’s corresponding wasp is very tiny and stingless. These insects are part of an 80 million year old relationship between figs and wasps. The fig has a special chemical called ficin which breaks down the exoskeleton of the wasp. The fig also has a special enzyme that digests the wasp’s body.
In addition to the ficin, a female fig wasp is also able to do several cool things. First, she brings pollen from the previous fig to the internal flowers of the new fig. Next, she lays eggs in the future seeds of the fig. These eggs hatch into larvae and live inside the fig. Lastly, she dies.
The female fig wasp’s feats of science include the fig’s enticing smell. She is also able to burrow into the fig’s flesh to lay eggs, which is technically a feat. The female fig wasp is also able yank its wings out of its body.
