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Explain how the Red Queen Hypothesis describes the continuously evolving relationship between red grapes and Botrytis cinerea.

a) The hypothesis explains how the genetic makeup of grapes remains unchanged over time.
b) It describes how a stable relationship is established between grapes and Botrytis cinerea.
c) It emphasizes the coevolutionary arms race between hosts (grapes) and pathogens (Botrytis cinerea).
d) It suggests that grapes have evolved resistance, making them immune to Botrytis cinerea.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The Red Queen Hypothesis emphasizes a coevolutionary arms race, exemplified by the evolving relationship between red grapes and Botrytis cinerea, in which both species must continually adapt to maintain fitness and avoid extinction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Red Queen Hypothesis explains the evolutionary arms race between hosts and pathogens, exemplified by the relationship between red grapes and Botrytis cinerea. The correct answer to how this hypothesis describes the relationship is option c, which states, "It emphasizes the coevolutionary arms race between hosts (grapes) and pathogens (Botrytis cinerea)." This hypothesis suggests that in order for species to maintain their relative fitness in the face of constantly evolving pathogens, they too must continue to evolve. This constant change is necessary despite stable conditions because it maintains a species' share of resources and prevents extinction. This is evident in how grapes must adapt to survive against the persistent threat posed by Botrytis cinerea, which can cause destructive grey mould disease but, when controlled, can also contribute to the production of prized dessert wines.

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