Question:

Hosts of parasites evolve effective immune responses to infection, which in turn results in those parasites evolving increased infectiousness towards the hosts. Which one of the following processes describes this type of interaction between hosts and parasites?

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In biological interactions, co-evolution plays a crucial role in the ongoing adaptation of species, especially in host-parasite relationships.
Updated On: Apr 8, 2025
  • Co-evolution
  • Quorum sensing
  • Convergent evolution
  • Character displacement
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding Co-evolution.
Co-evolution is a process where two or more species influence each other's evolutionary development. In the case of hosts and parasites, the host evolves defenses against the parasite, and in response, the parasite evolves ways to overcome the host's defenses. This leads to an ongoing "arms race" between the two.

Step 2: Explanation of the other options.
  • Quorum sensing: A mechanism of bacterial communication used to coordinate behavior based on population density.
  • Convergent evolution: Refers to unrelated species developing similar traits due to adapting to similar environments or ecological niches.
  • Character displacement: Involves changes in species traits due to competition, often seen when closely related species coexist in the same area.
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