Abstract
In this paper we examine if fig species emit specific compounds in order to attract pollinating wasps. Volatile compounds released by receptive figs from 13 tropical Ficus species were identified. They are mainly terpenoids, but also include benzenoids and non-terpenoid oxygenated aliphatic compounds. The blend of volatiles of each species is unique. Seven of the 13 species studied emit some compounds that are uncommon among floral volatiles. Ten of the species studied were dioecious. In three of these species we examined the potential differences in odour blends between male and female inflorescences. In all three, both sexes share compounds, even if one sex has some additional volatiles.