From ecological interactions to evolutionary change within and across trophic levels Adaptation to Complex Environments

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Species interactions shape trait evolution, and these evolutionary changes can, in turn, alter population dynamics and ecological relationships. These complex eco-evolutionary feedbacks are thought to play a key role in determining ecosystem persistence, yet their consequences across trophic levels remain poorly understood. We are developing a set of approaches ranging from experimental evolution and characterization of isogenic lines to theoretical modelling, with the aim of examining both sides of this feedback loop: how do ecological interactions drive evolutionary change, and how does evolution reshapes ecological dynamics. We do this in systems with only one, two, and ultimately three trophic levels under different environmental conditions. Our results so far demonstrate that abiotic factors can change trait evolution, modifying interactions both within and across trophic levels. We also find that variation in traits can affect population dynamics, with even small trait shifts leading to distinct ecological and evolutionary outcomes. By integrating ecological and evolutionary perspectives, this work highlights how adaptation can shape species interactions within a (simple) ecosystem and how it affects species persistence.

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