1. Species interactions in tightly bound ecological mutualisms often feature highly specialized species’ roles in which competitive exclusion may preclude multi-species coexistence. Among the 800 figs (Ficus) species, it was originally considered that each was pollinated by its own wasp (Agaonidae). However, recent investigations show that this ‘one-to-one’ rule often breaks down, as fig species regularly host multiple agaonids but in ways suggesting that competitive processes still mediate biodiversity outcomes.
2. A phenological survey was conducted of the fig–fig wasp pair, Ficus microcarpa, and its associated pollinating wasp, alongside its sister species, the cheating wasp, in Xishuangbanna, China.
3. Reproductive output underwent extreme seasonal variation. Seed and pollinator production fell markedly during cooler, drier months, although high levels of fig production continued. However, this resource was predominantly utilized by the cheater species, which offers no pollination services. Pollinators and cheaters rarely co-occur, suggesting that temporal coexistence is constrained by competition for access to figs.
4. The overall findings indicate periodic rearrangements of mutualism dynamics, probably resulting from a strongly seasonal environment. Sympatric co-occurrence may result from a window of opportunity for a functionally divergent agaonid, potentially due to constraints on the main pollinator in adapting to variable year-round conditions that prevent competitive exclusion.
