coevolution The simultaneous long-term evolutionary adjustment of two or more groups of organisms caused by the selection pressures that each exerts on the other. It is commonly observed in symbiotic associations. For example, many insect-pollinated plants have evolved flowers with a color and shape that make them attractive to particular insects, while these insects have evolved specialized mouthparts and sense organs for finding and extracting nectar from these plants. Related category • ORIGIN AND EVOLUTION OF LIFE Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |