Digest: Evolutionary rescue following the introduction of a pathogen

Evolution. 2021 Nov;75(11):2998-2999. doi: 10.1111/evo.14361. Epub 2021 Oct 7.

Abstract

To what extent can adaptive evolution rescue a population from extinction following the introduction of a pathogen? Searle and Christie (2021) show how evolutionary rescues in host-pathogen systems may differ from those that occur in response to abiotic changes. In particular, they pinpoint how epidemiological feedback and pathogen evolution, inherent to host-pathogen systems, can greatly affect the likelihood of rescue.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Biological Evolution*