Coevolution and the effects of climate change on interacting species.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Recent studies suggest that environmental changes may tip the balance between interacting species, leading to the extinction of one or more species. While it is recognized that evolution will play a role in determining how environmental changes directly affect species, the interactions among species force us to consider the coevolutionary responses of species to environmental changes.

Methodology/principle findings

We use simple models of competition, predation, and mutualism to organize and synthesize the ways coevolution modifies species interactions when climatic changes favor one species over another. In cases where species have conflicting interests (i.e., selection for increased interspecific interaction strength on one species is detrimental to the other),

SUBMITTER: Northfield TD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3805473 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature