2h- Co-evolution Flashcards
What is co-evolution?
The process by which two or more species evolve in response to selection pressures imposed by each other
What does a change in traits of one species act as?
A selection pressure on the other species
Where is co-evolution frequently seen?
In pairs of species that have symbiotic interactions
What is symbiosis?
Co-evolved intimate relationships between members of two different species
What can the impact of these symbiotic relationships be for the individuals involved?
Positive (+), negative (-) or neutral (0)
What are three examples of symbiotic relationships?
- mutualism
- commensalism
- parasitism
What is mutualism?
Both organisms in the interaction are interdependent on each other for resources or other services. As both organisms gain from the relationship, the interaction is (+/+)
What is commensalism?
Only one of the organisms benefits (+/0)
What is parasitism?
The parasite benefits in terms of energy or nutrients and the host is harmed as the result of the loss of these resources
What does the Red Queen hypothesis state and what does this mean for the species involved?
That, in a co-evolutionary relationship, change in the traits of one species can act as a selection pressure on the other species. This means that species in these relationships must adapt to avoid extinction