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Adaptation varies through space and time in a coevolving host-parasitoid interaction
Samantha E Forde1, John N Thompson, Brendan J M Bohannan
1Department of Biological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA. forde@biology.ucsc.edu
Nature
|October 16, 2004
Summary
Geographic mosaic theory explains how varying selection and gene flow shape coevolution. This study shows that spatial gene flow alters host-parasitoid adaptation dynamics across landscapes.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Biology
- Coevolutionary Dynamics
- Biodiversity Organization
Background:
- Understanding coevolutionary patterns across geographic landscapes is a key challenge.
- Species comprise genetically diverse populations that can adapt locally.
- Geographic mosaic theory posits that spatial variation in selection and gene flow influences coevolutionary dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically test predictions of the geographic mosaic theory of coevolution.
- To investigate the impact of spatial structuring and gene flow on coevolutionary adaptation.
- To examine how productivity gradients and asymmetric gene flow affect coevolutionary outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a model system of bacteria and their bacteriophage (viral parasites).
- Analyzed patterns of gene flow across a spatially structured landscape.
- Assessed local selection pressures and historical population relationships.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated that gene flow across a landscape significantly alters host-parasitoid coevolution.
- Observed that patterns of adaptation fluctuate in both space and time.
- Provided empirical support for the geographic mosaic theory's predictions.
Conclusions:
- Spatial gene flow is a critical factor in shaping coevolutionary trajectories.
- Coevolutionary adaptation is dynamic and context-dependent across geographic landscapes.
- The study highlights the importance of considering landscape structure in evolutionary biology.
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