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The microbiome extends host evolutionary potential

Author

Listed:
  • Lucas P. Henry

    (Princeton University
    Princeton University)

  • Marjolein Bruijning

    (Princeton University)

  • Simon K. G. Forsberg

    (Princeton University
    Princeton University
    Uppsala University)

  • Julien F. Ayroles

    (Princeton University
    Princeton University)

Abstract

The microbiome shapes many host traits, yet the biology of microbiomes challenges traditional evolutionary models. Here, we illustrate how integrating the microbiome into quantitative genetics can help untangle complexities of host-microbiome evolution. We describe two general ways in which the microbiome may affect host evolutionary potential: by shifting the mean host phenotype and by changing the variance in host phenotype in the population. We synthesize the literature across diverse taxa and discuss how these scenarios could shape the host response to selection. We conclude by outlining key avenues of research to improve our understanding of the complex interplay between hosts and microbiomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Lucas P. Henry & Marjolein Bruijning & Simon K. G. Forsberg & Julien F. Ayroles, 2021. "The microbiome extends host evolutionary potential," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:12:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-021-25315-x
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25315-x
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    Cited by:

    1. M. McCauley & T. L. Goulet & C. R. Jackson & S. Loesgen, 2023. "Systematic review of cnidarian microbiomes reveals insights into the structure, specificity, and fidelity of marine associations," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 14(1), pages 1-15, December.

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