The fig wasp is a tiny insect that plays a crucial role in the reproduction of fig trees. These wasps are usually less than 1 centimeter long and have a unique relationship with figs, as they are the only pollinators of certain fig species. Female fig wasps enter the fig through a small opening called the ostiole, where they lay their eggs and pollinate the flowers inside. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae develop within the fig, and the male wasps mate with the females before they emerge. After mating, the males die inside the fig, while the fertilized females leave to find new figs to pollinate, continuing the cycle.