ECO EVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS: INTERACTIONS BETWEEN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION IN CONTEMPORARY TIME

Eco‑evolutionary dynamics refers to the reciprocal interactions between ecological processes and evolutionary changes that occur on similar timescales. Traditionally, ecological and evolutionary processes were treated as separate—ecology acting quickly, and evolution slowly. However, contemporary research demonstrates that evolution can occur rapidly enough to influence population dynamics, species interactions, and ecosystem processes, and that ecological changes can in turn drive evolutionary responses. This article reviews the conceptual foundations of eco‑evolutionary dynamics, key examples from empirical research, and the implications for biodiversity, community structure, and ecosystem functioning.