Evolutionary arms `chase`
(WorldNews Environment)

A new study analyzed multiple species of Inga, a genus of tropical trees that produces defensive chemicals, and their various insect herbivores. The researchers found that closely-related plants evolved very different defensive traits. Additionally, their analysis revealed that herbivores may drive evolution of plant defenses, but may not show coevolutionary adaptations. Instead, they may `chase` plants based on the herbivore`s own traits at the time they encounter a new host. ......