Speciation Genomics in an Obligate Fig Pollination Mutualism

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One of the best examples of co-diversification is that of figs (Ficus, Moraceae) and fig wasp pollinators (Agaonidae). Wasps act as pollen vectors for figs while the figs consist of the main food source & shelter for the wasp larvae. Using existing genomic data & field experiments, the current project will address: i) the genomics of speciation in figs & pollinators and ii) the ecological & evolutionary determinants of host specificity. Hypothesis 1: admixture occurs among members of a recently diverged species complex in line with predictions from morphological compatibility:Study organisms: fig complex of the Papuasyce section (F. microdictya, F. umbrae, F. itoana)Methods: analysis of RAD-seq data & draft (10X) genomes already collected & additional samplingAim: estimate the extent of geneflow & introgression among species; establish the functionality of genomic regions of high divergenceHypothesis 2a: Wolbachia infections are predictably distributed among individual fig wasps when considering wasp phylogeny and morphology:Study organisms: wasp pollinators & their symbiotic bacteria, WolbachiaMethods: screen wasp samples already available for Wolbachia infections; measure morphology of critical wasp traitsAim: clarify the importance of Wolbachia infections in the speciation of fig wasps and by extent, figsHypothesis 2b: Wolbachia infections are predictably distributed among the phylogeny of wasps within a completely sampled genus Study organisms: Malvanthera figs & their pollinators (Pleistodontes)Methods: analysis of Wolbachia strain distribution across PleistodontesAim: clarifying the patterns of Wolbachia infections across an entire wasp genusHypothesis 3: fig wasps show high levels of local adaptationStudy organisms: Papuasyce figs & corresponding wasp pollinatorsMethods: thermal tolerance & dispersal abilities experiments; host specificity/pollinator exchange experimentsAim: establish the degree of wasp local adaptation to abiotic environment & host plant