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Antagonistic Interspecific Coevolution
Book chapter

Antagonistic Interspecific Coevolution

M Neiman and P Fields
Encyclopedia of Evolutionary Biology, pp.93-100
Elsevier Inc
2016
DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-12-800049-6.00196-7

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Abstract

All organisms experience frequent attacks from biological enemies such as parasites and predators. Interspecific antagonistic coevolution is defined as a situation whereby evolution in a species is driven by selection imposed by antagonist species, and vice versa. This ‘biological antagonism’ constitutes a common source of natural selection and is likely a major contributor to adaptive evolution. Here, we review the evolutionary importance of interspecific antagonistic coevolution, discuss the most important mechanisms by which it occurs and how these mechanisms can be detected and distinguished, and discuss a few relevant case studies. We conclude by suggesting some outstanding questions for future research.
Arms race Biological enemy Host Negative frequency-dependent selection Parasite Pathogen Red Queen

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