Coevolutionary Dynamics in Parasitic or Mutualistic Interactions

Coevolutionary interactions are shaped by reciprocal selection, which drives adaptive changes in the interacting species. Such changes can affect the interactants’ reproductive potential and consequently their population sizes. This research topic will investigate the dynamics of phenotype/genotype frequencies and of population sizes in mutualistic and parasitic interactions. Classical examples of such dynamics include the evolution of plant-pollinator morphological trait matching and of host-parasitoid population cycles. Coevolutionary interactions have traditionally been studied through the lens of Evolutionarily Stable Strategies (ESS), emphasizing genotype frequencies and population densities at equilibrium. However, newly established mutualistic and antagonistic associations offer a critical additional window into the initial, non-equilibrium stages of coevolution. We therefore also invite case studies of coevolutionary dynamics in novel mutualistic or parasitic associations, e.g. after invasion of a new ecosystem or following extinction of an interaction partner. We welcome empirical and theoretical articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Eco-evolutionary feedback loops• The dynamics of host interactions with parasites, parasitoids, and microbial symbionts• The dynamics of plant interactions with pollinators and seed dispersers• Novel mutualistic or parasitic associations triggered by range expansion, climate change, or habitat loss and conversion.• Applied implications for sustainable agriculture, biological control, crop pollination, and ecosystem management Topic editors: Tamar Keasar, Carlos Fabian Vargas-Mendoza Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/84231/coevolutionary-dynamics-in-parasitic-or-mutualistic-interactions