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The ecology and evolution of social behavior in microbes

Author(s): Tarnita, Corina E.

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Abstract: Cooperation has been studied extensively across the tree of life, from eusociality in insects to social behavior in humans, but it is only recently that a social dimension has been recognized and extensively explored for microbes. Research into microbial cooperation has accelerated dramatically and microbes have become a favorite system because of their fast evolution, their convenience as lab study systems and the opportunity for molecular investigations. However, the study of microbes also poses significant challenges, such as a lack of knowledge and an inaccessibility of the ecological context (used here to include both the abiotic and the biotic environment) under which the trait deemed cooperative has evolved and is maintained. I review the experimental and theoretical evidence in support of the limitations of the study of social behavior in microbes in the absence of an ecological context. I discuss both the need and the opportunities for experimental investigations that can inform a theoretical framework able to reframe the general questions of social behavior in a clear ecological context and to account for eco-evolutionary feedback.
Publication Date: 1-Jan-2017
Electronic Publication Date: 5-Jan-2017
Citation: Tarnita, Corina E. (2017). The ecology and evolution of social behavior in microbes. The Journal of Experimental Biology, 220 (1), 18 - 24. doi:10.1242/jeb.145631
DOI: doi:10.1242/jeb.145631
ISSN: 0022-0949
EISSN: 1477-9145
Pages: 18 - 24
Type of Material: Journal Article
Journal/Proceeding Title: The Journal of Experimental Biology
Version: Final published version. Article is made available in OAR by the publisher's permission or policy.



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