What acts as the primary evolutionary mechanism that stops a mutually beneficial relationship from collapsing?
Answer
The evolutionary cost of specialization and resulting interdependence.
Interdependence created by specialization acts as the glue; if the host loses the ability to perform a critical function handled by the symbiont, selection strongly pressures against separation.
Related Questions
What characterizes a commensalistic symbiotic relationship?What is identified as the core engine driving the evolution of symbiosis?In a pathway moving from parasitism toward mutualism, how does the parasite typically evolve?What process involves one organism living inside another, leading to the incorporation of cellular functions, such as the origin of mitochondria?What consequence does an increased genetic investment in a stabilizing mutualism often create for an organism?What role does horizontal gene transfer play in cementing symbiotic dependency?What is the immediate fitness consequence for a host in an obligate relationship if separation from the symbiont occurs?What acts as the primary evolutionary mechanism that stops a mutually beneficial relationship from collapsing?Which outcome represents the highest level of symbiotic integration between partners?What is required at the foundation for symbiosis to develop beyond mere proximity?