Pairwise Co-evolution
Pairwise co-evolution in business creates both specialized value and dangerous dependencies.
One-on-one reciprocal adaptation between two species. The yucca moth and yucca plant exemplify extreme pairwise co-evolution: yucca plants are pollinated exclusively by yucca moths, and moths reproduce exclusively on yucca plants. The moth evolved specialized mouthparts for active pollination - the only known case of active pollination by an insect. This tight co-evolution produces intricate adaptations but creates fragility: if one species goes extinct, the other follows.
Business Application of Pairwise Co-evolution
Pairwise co-evolution in business creates both specialized value and dangerous dependencies. Companies tightly coupled to single partners (exclusive suppliers, single customers) develop deep integration but face existential risk if the relationship fails.