How does the obligate mutualism between Glochidion trees and Epicephala moths affect cospeciation events between the two genera?
A) Because Glochidion and Epicephala are highly specialized as partners in their obligate mutualism, speciation in one species makes it more likely the other species will go extinct.
B) Each species cannot survive and successfully reproduce without the other, making it more likely for cospeciation to occur when one species experiences a speciation event.
C) Although molecular evidence indicates some relationship, there is not conclusive evidence for the role of the obligate mutualism in cospeciation events in the G-E system.
D) As speciation occurs, the obligate mutualism is significantly weakened and can result in a separate, unrelated speciation in the other species.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The obligate mutualism between Glochidion trees and Epicephala moths means that each species cannot survive and successfully reproduce without the other. This increases the likelihood that cospeciation will occur when one species experiences a speciation event. The close relationship between the two species promotes coevolution and reinforces the dependence they have on each other, resulting in parallel speciation events.

How Does the Obligate Mutualism Between Glochidion Trees and Epicephala