Tag: Co-evolution
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Adaptive Valley
The Adaptive Valley, central to evolutionary biology, represents a state of local optimum from which a population finds it difficult to evolve towards better fitness due to the interim lower fitness states. Mutations, genetic drift, and various evolutionary strategies aid this crossing, with applications extending to artificial intelligence and beyond.
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Exaptation
Exaptation, a key concept in evolutionary biology, refers to the repurposing of existing traits for new functions. This process plays a significant role in both biological and cultural innovation, enabling rapid evolutionary responses. Its identification, however, is complicated due to the complexity of historical evolutionary pressures.
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Maladaptation
Maladaptation refers to evolutionary traits that hinder an organism’s survival and reproduction, possibly leading to extinction. These traits may arise due to various factors, including rapid environmental changes and genetic constraints. Understanding maladaptation aids in conservation efforts and disease management.