Which one of the following shows a unique relationship with an insect that has coevolved with it and that is the only insect that can pollinate this tree?

• (a) Fig — Correct. Fig species have an obligate mutualism with highly specific fig wasps; typically each fig species is pollinated by its own coevolved wasp species.
• (b) Mahua — Incorrect. Mahua is pollinated by various insects and other agents; it does not have a one-to-one exclusive pollinator relationship.
• (c) Sandalwood — Incorrect. Sandalwood is known more for being a hemiparasitic plant; it does not have such a unique exclusive insect-pollinator coevolution.
• (d) Silk cotton — Incorrect. Silk cotton flowers are pollinated by multiple agents, often including birds, bats, and insects, not a single exclusive insect.

Answer: (a) Fig