Co-Evolution

• What is co-evolution?


  Co-evolution is the process by which two or more species evolve in response to selection pressures imposed by each other.
• How does a change in the traits of one species affect another species in co-evolution?


  A change in the traits of one species acts as a selection pressure on the other species.
• What are the types of symbiotic interactions?

  • Mutualism: Both organisms benefit
  • Commensalism: Beneficial to one organism, the other is unaffected
  • Parasitism: Beneficial to one species but damaging to the host
• What is mutualism?

  Mutualism is a symbiotic interaction where both organisms benefit.
• Can you give an example of mutualism?


  Plants and micro-organisms, such as flowers and pollinators like bees, exemplify mutualism.
• What is commensalism?


  Commensalism is a symbiotic interaction beneficial to one organism while the other is unaffected.
• Provide an example of commensalism.


  Boxer crabs with anemones in their claws illustrate commensalism.
• What is parasitism?


  Parasitism is a symbiotic interaction beneficial to one species but frequently damaging to the host species.
• Can you name some examples of parasitism?


  Examples of parasitism include ticks, tapeworms, leeches, fleas, and nits.
• What does the Red Queen hypothesis state?


  The Red Queen hypothesis states that change in the traits of one species can act as a selection pressure on another species.
• What is the implication of the Red Queen hypothesis for species in co-evolutionary relationships?


  Species in these relationships must adapt to avoid extinction.