Data from: Faster speciation of fig-wasps than their host figs leads to decoupled speciation dynamics

The genus Ficus (Moraceae) is best known for its obligate mutualism with
pollinating fig-wasps (Agaonidae), where species are thought to
reciprocally trigger genetic differentiation resulting in tight
co-speciation. Here, we used nextRAD DNA sequencing to study the
population structure of multiple fig species and their corresponding
fig-wasps along an elevational gradient in Papua New Guinea. Contrary to
the expected one-to-one species specificity in this mutualism we find
evidence of multiple pollinating wasp species, which through limited
dispersal abilities along the gradient, likely limit pollen flow and
influence fig population structure along these slopes. In two cases, where
the fig species studied have wide distribution along the mountain, we
found between three and four wasp species pollinating closely related
populations of fig species. In the case of one fig subspecies complex, we
identified two fig-wasp species according to the distribution of their
host subspecies. Finally, in a parapatric, three sister species complex,
we identified three individual wasp species, each corresponding to its
host fig species. Fig-wasps appear to speciate more rapidly through faster
generation times, faster rates of local adaptation and/or weak dispersal
abilities compared to figs. This in turn restricts pollen movement between
fig ecotypes, strengthening reproductive barriers and so facilitating
their speciation. Fig speciation along the gradient and wasp lineage
extinction may eventually restore the one-to-one rule in this mutualism
through split and sort speciation dynamics.