Quck answer
No, figs are not full of baby wasps. However, some species of figs do require pollination by a specific wasp species in order to produce fruit. This wasp enters the fig to lay its eggs, and in the process pollinates the flowers inside the fig. The fig then produces seeds and the wasp larvae feed on some of the developing seeds. However, the figs we typically eat are a different variety that do not require this wasp for pollination and do not contain any wasp larvae. So, while there is some truth to the story, it is important to understand the specifics and not fear eating figs.
Wild Animals
Figs (Ficus carica) may appear to have squiggly things inside, but are they really filled with baby wasps? DEA/M. CERRI/De Agostini/Getty Images
Many people believe that fig bars contain baby wasps, but this is just a grade-school urban legend. While some stories about fig plants being infested with insects and fruit filled with small wasps may be unsettling, there’s no need to avoid figs. The insects found inside figs are actually fig wasps, which are the plant’s only pollinator and play a crucial role in the fig’s life cycle.
The relationship between the fig plant and the wasp is known as mutualism, as they both rely on each other for survival. The plant provides the wasp with food and shelter, while the wasp pollinates the plant.
When figs are harvested, the wasps may still be inside. However, food companies typically remove them before turning figs into jam or other products. So, despite the rumors, figs do not contain baby wasps.
FAQ
1. Are figs really full of baby wasps?
Yes, it’s true that some types of figs have wasps living inside them. However, not all figs contain wasps, and even those that do usually have only a few female wasps present. The wasps are responsible for pollinating the figs, and the figs provide a safe place for the wasps to lay their eggs. The figs that most commonly contain wasps are the ones that are pollinated by the fig wasp, which is a tiny insect that is about the size of a gnat.
2. Are figs safe to eat?
Yes, figs are safe to eat, even if they contain wasps. The wasps are usually digested along with the figs, so you won’t even know that they’re there. However, if you’re allergic to wasp venom, you should avoid eating figs that may contain wasps.
3. How do wasps get inside figs?
Female fig wasps crawl inside the figs through a small hole in the bottom of the fruit called the ostiole. The figs are just large enough to allow the wasps to enter, but not large enough for them to fly around inside.
4. Do all figs contain wasps?
No, not all figs contain wasps. Some figs are self-pollinating and don’t require wasps for pollination. Other figs are pollinated by different types of wasps or by bees.
5. Are there any health benefits to eating figs?
Yes, figs are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins K and B6. They may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can be beneficial for overall health.
6. Can you tell if a fig contains a wasp by looking at it?
No, it’s not possible to tell if a fig contains a wasp just by looking at it. The wasps are very small and are usually hidden inside the fruit.
7. How do figs affect wasps?
Figs provide a safe place for female wasps to lay their eggs, and the figs also provide food for the wasp larvae. The wasps, in turn, pollinate the figs and help to ensure that the next generation of figs will be produced.
8. Are there any figs that don’t contain wasps?
Yes, there are some types of figs that don’t require wasps for pollination and therefore don’t contain them. These figs are usually larger and sweeter than the ones that do contain wasps.
9. Can you prevent wasps from getting inside figs?
No, it’s not possible to prevent wasps from getting inside figs without also preventing the figs from being pollinated. However, washing the figs before eating them can help to remove any dirt or debris that might be present.
10. Are there any other fruits or vegetables that contain insects?
Yes, there are many types of fruits and vegetables that can contain insects. Some examples include strawberries, raspberries, broccoli, and spinach. However, most of these insects are harmless and are usually digested along with the food.
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