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Resumo

This article argues that the notion of the individual, particularly as understood in biology, needs to be revised in light of symbiotic relationships. The authors challenge the traditional view of organisms as autonomous entities, proposing instead a symbiotic view of life where interactions and interdependence between species are fundamental to evolution and ecological processes. They trace the historical development of the individualistic perspective, highlighting how it has shaped biological thought and limited our understanding of complex biological systems. Using examples such as the holobiont concept (the host plus its microbial community) and developmental symbioses, they demonstrate how symbiotic associations are essential for the development, function, and evolution of many organisms. The article concludes that embracing a symbiotic perspective offers a more nuanced and accurate understanding of life, recognizing the interconnectedness and co-evolution of diverse life forms.

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