Explore your local environment to help scientists learn more about fig wasps - species that are essential in allowing fig trees to make seeds and reproduce.

Native Australian fig trees need tiny (~2 mm) fig wasps for successful pollination, and the wasps rely on the fig trees to complete their lifecycle. This relationship has evolved to the point where the tree and the wasp are completely dependent on each other.

These fig wasps are a keystone species in subtropical Australia. Without them, whole ecosystems we love and the species that rely on them are at threat.

Unfortunately, we still don’t even know how many species of pollinating and non-pollinating fig wasps there are, and how these relationships evolve and adapt to stresses such as climate change.

Schools can register to participate in this hands-on citizen science project to help provide scientists with vital data on these important insects.

All schools are invited to participate, with support provided to help students in all year levels achieve success. All you need is:

• access to any species of fig trees
• a phone/camera to record the location and identifying features of your fig trees on iNaturalist
• plastic zip lock bags.

Participation is free of charge.

Upon registration, schools will receive:

• collection vials, pre-filled with non-toxic preservative
• pre-paid return envelope to submit the samples collected to UQ for analysis
• access to microscopic-aided photographs of their wasps and genetic barcode data from the submissions tested.

This project makes a great addition to your National Science Week activities as you'll be participating in research that aligns with the 2026 NSW School theme: Seeds of Science - Nurturing knowledge for all.

Proudly supported by the Queensland Government—Engaging Science Grants

Interested in this project but not a school or not in Queensland? Email Anthony Young to inquire about additional ways to participate.