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Published on: January 12, 2017
Coevolution in multidimensional trait space favours escape from parasites and pathogens
R Tucker Gilman1, Scott L Nuismer, Dwueng-Chwuan Jhwueng
1National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis, Knoxville, Tennessee 37916, USA. rtgilman@nimbios.org
Victim species can survive parasitic attacks by evolving unique advantages. Coevolution involving multiple host and parasite traits can level the evolutionary playing field, enabling victim species to thrive.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Ecology
- Genetics
Background:
- Species face constant threats from parasites and pathogens.
- Parasites often evolve faster than their hosts, creating an evolutionary arms race.
- The survival of victim species despite this rapid enemy evolution presents a paradox.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how victim species survive and thrive against faster-evolving enemies.
- To explore the hypothesis that victim species possess unique evolutionary advantages.
- To challenge the conventional view of victim species' evolutionary limitations.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative genetic analysis was employed.
- Individual-based simulations were utilized.
- The study focused on coevolutionary dynamics involving multiple traits.
Main Results:
- Victim species can gain evolutionary advantages.
- Coevolutionary processes involving multiple traits in both host and parasite are key.
- These advantages help to balance the evolutionary race between species and their enemies.
Conclusions:
- Victim species are not evolutionarily impotent.
- Unique evolutionary advantages can emerge through multi-trait coevolution.
- This research offers a new perspective on host-parasite dynamics and species survival.
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