Whose studies first explained the toxin-resistant garter snake and newt arms race?
Quick Answer
This predator-prey arms race was studied by many evolutionary biologists, especially in North America. Rough-skinned newts produce tetrodotoxin, and some garter snakes have evolved resistance to it.
The Full Story
Evolutionary biologists studying rough-skinned newts and garter snakes found one of the clearest examples of coevolution. The newts produce tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin, while some garter snake populations have evolved resistance strong enough to eat them. In some regions, the two species show a geographic pattern of escalating adaptation. This system is a classic example of evolutionary arms races in the wild.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The snake and newt locked in an evolutionary duel"
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