What type of evolutionary change is characteristic of co-evolution?

Study for the NCEA Level 3 Biology Speciation Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each providing hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for success!

Co-evolution is characterized by the scenario where a feature or trait of one species exerts a selection pressure on another species, leading to reciprocal evolutionary changes. This typically occurs in interactions where two or more species have a close ecological relationship, such as predators and prey or mutualistic partners (like bees and flowering plants).

For instance, a change in the feeding behavior of a predator might lead to an adaptive response in the prey species, which might evolve better camouflage or speed to evade predation. This dynamic back-and-forth evolution is central to understanding co-evolution, as the adaptations of one species directly influence the evolutionary trajectories of the other.

Thus, option C is correct because it accurately reflects the essence of co-evolution, highlighting the interdependence of the evolutionary changes between species involved in these ecological interactions.

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