NEETZoologyOrganisms and Populations
Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): A given fig species can be pollinated only by its specific partner wasp species and no other species. Reason (R): The fig tree provides floral rewards to the wasp in the form of abundant nectar and edible pollen grains. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from t
Options
- ABoth (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
- BBoth (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
- C(A) is true but (R) is false
- D(A) is false but (R) is true
Correct answer
C. (A) is true but (R) is false
Step-by-step solution
Assertion (A) is true. The relationship between a fig tree and its pollinator wasp is a classic example of strict one-to-one co-evolution, meaning a given fig species is pollinated only by its specific partner wasp species. Reason (R) is false. The fig tree does not provide nectar as a floral reward. Instead, it provides the wasp with safe oviposition (egg-laying) sites within the fruit/inflorescence, and the developing seeds serve as food for the wasp larvae. Therefore, (A) is true but (R) is false. Answer: (A) is