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. 2024 Apr 11;22(4):e3002593.
doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002593. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Linking cell biology and ecology to understand coral symbiosis evolution

Niels J Dingemanse  1 , Annika Guse  1
Affiliations

Linking cell biology and ecology to understand coral symbiosis evolution

Niels J Dingemanse et al. PLoS Biol. .

Abstract

Understanding the evolution of coral endosymbiosis requires a predictive framework that integrates life-history theory and ecology with cell biology. The time has come to bridge disciplines and use a model systems approach to achieve this aim.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Fig 1
Fig 1. Cell biology underpins the ecology and evolution of coral symbiosis.
(A) An eco-evolutionary feedback loop, whereby environmental conditions determine the optimal symbiont–host pairing and life-history strategy to maximize fitness of both, which leads to coevolution of partners shaping coral reef ecosystems (Photo credit: Malik Naumann). (B) Distinct life-history traits employed by corals are likely underpinned by differences in cellular interactions, such as the exchange of goods between symbiont A and B and their respective coral host cells. Experimentally linking these molecular mechanisms to life-history traits will provide novel insights into the mechanisms used to adapt to the environment through symbiotic partnerships.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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References

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