Cooperation within and between species: the effects of spatial structure

Cooperative interactions between species are the foundation of all mutualistic associations. Compared to within species interactions, the problem of cooperation is exacerbated because acts of cooperation bestow benefits not just to another individual but to a member of another species. To achieve mutual benefits, inter-species coordination is required, which increases the threat of exploitation by defectors. Here we show that in the spatial prisoner's dilemma surprisingly rich dynamics emerge with distinct dynamical domains separated by critical phase transitions. Most importantly, cooperative behaviour not only persists in interactions within and between species, but may result in intriguing, spontaneous symmetry breaking in mutualistic interactions. Evolution may favour asymmetric states that effectively separate species into cooperative producers and defecting consumers. Surprisingly, the asymmetry becomes more pronounced under more benign conditions for cooperation.



Presential in the IFISC seminar room.



 Zoom stream: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83062474626?pwd=oyni5wzRkvTGUkNQt3GrJgl3ZUwaXI.1