The evolution of ecologically related species is sometimes coordinated
such that each species exerts a strong selective influence
on the other. This is coevolution.
Coevolution may occur when species are competing for the same resource or during predator–prey interactions. In the evolution of predator–prey relationships, for example, natural selection favors the development of protective characteristics in prey species. Similarly, selection favors characteristics in predators that allow them to become better at catching and immobilizing prey. Predator–prey relationships coevolve when a change toward greater predator efficiency is countered by increased elusiveness of prey. Coevolution is obvious in the relationships between some flowering plants and their animal pollinators. Flowers attract pollinators with a variety of elaborate olfactory and visual adaptations. Insect-pollinated flowers are usually yellow or blue because insects see these wavelengths of light best. In addition, petal arrangements often provide perches for pollinating insects. Flowers pollinated by hummingbirds, on the other hand, are often tubular and red. Hummingbirds have a poor sense of smell but see red very well. The long beak of hummingbirds is an adaptation that allows them to reach far into tubular flowers. Their hovering ability means that they have no need for a perch.
Coevolution may occur when species are competing for the same resource or during predator–prey interactions. In the evolution of predator–prey relationships, for example, natural selection favors the development of protective characteristics in prey species. Similarly, selection favors characteristics in predators that allow them to become better at catching and immobilizing prey. Predator–prey relationships coevolve when a change toward greater predator efficiency is countered by increased elusiveness of prey. Coevolution is obvious in the relationships between some flowering plants and their animal pollinators. Flowers attract pollinators with a variety of elaborate olfactory and visual adaptations. Insect-pollinated flowers are usually yellow or blue because insects see these wavelengths of light best. In addition, petal arrangements often provide perches for pollinating insects. Flowers pollinated by hummingbirds, on the other hand, are often tubular and red. Hummingbirds have a poor sense of smell but see red very well. The long beak of hummingbirds is an adaptation that allows them to reach far into tubular flowers. Their hovering ability means that they have no need for a perch.
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