Contrasting patterns of fig wasp communities along Mt. Wilhelm, Papua New Guinea

• DOI: 10.1111/btp.12763
• Publication Date: 2020-03-30T12:42:51Z
• Authors: Daniel Souto‐Vilarós; Mickal Houadria; Jan Michalek; Mentap Sisol; Brus Isua; Thomas Kuyaiva; George D. Weiblen; Vojtech Novotny; Simon T. Segar
• Keywords: Mutualism

Abstract The fig (Moraceae) and pollinating wasp (Agaonidae) mutualism is best known as a model system for the study of coevolution in plant–pollinator interactions its central role shaping vertebrate communities tropical forests. Figs also host myriad antagonistic parasitic wasps which impose costs on both partners threatening stability. Spatiotemporal variation abundance key factor mitigating these effects. Because are temperature sensitive likely vary their ability to traverse environmental gradients, we expect community assemblages non‐pollinating respond changes along an elevational gradient. In present study, compare three species growing slopes Mount Wilhelm altitudinal gradient Papua New Guinea. We quantified from over 100 male trees calculated seed set 55 female each species’ distribution transect. Our results show that follow mid‐elevation peak, consistent with richness found same patterns, however, different according host's distribution. Seed remained relatively constant all some decrease higher elevations, potentially affecting connectivity As suggested insects general, habitat diversity appear play fundamental wasps.