The hologenome concept: we need to incorporate function

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Microbiology

Background:

• The traditional view of individual organisms is challenged by the holobiont concept.
• The holobiont comprises a host and its associated symbiotic microorganisms.
• The significance of the holobiont in understanding ecology and evolution is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore various facets of the holobiont concept.
• To critically examine the role of functional integration within holobionts.
• To assess the utility of the holobiont concept in evolutionary studies.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the holobiont theory.
• Focus on the property of functional integration.
• Exploration of holobiontness as a continuous trait.

Main Results:

• The holobiont concept is proposed to exist on a continuum, termed 'holobiontness'.
• Holobiontness is a multi-dimensional trait.
• The holobiont represents a distinct level of selection.

Conclusions:

• The degree of functional integration determines the explanatory power of the holobiont concept.
• Holobiontness offers a nuanced perspective on host-microbe interactions.
• The holobiont concept's utility is contingent on the integration level of symbiotic partners.