Geographic Mosaic of Coevolution

The geographic mosaic of coevolution theory states that diversifying reciprocal selection between interacting organisms varies spatially resulting in local adaptation and speciation. Local variation in reciprocal selection produces geographic selection mosaics that lead to different evolutionary outcomes. Geographic mosaics are composed of hotspots with strong reciprocal selection and coldspots where reciprocal selection is weak or absent. Selection can also differ between hotspots where different environments alter reciprocal selection. Geographical selection mosaics will result in trait matching and local adaptation of some populations; but gene flow among areas experiencing divergent selection can result in trait remixing and maladapted populations.