Coevolution: Magnolia Trees & Beetles

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(Term #23: Coevolution)



Definition: Coevolution describes how the relationship between two species impacts their respective evolvements.


Explanation: Beetles and flowering plants, such as magnolia trees, evolved side-by-side. The beetles eat pollen and pollinate the flowers in the process. Magnolia trees evolved to have attractively scented pollen and thick, tough flower petals and carpels, to support beetles' weight.

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