[DSRP Evidence](https://dsrpevidence.org/)

# Holobionts: host and microbiome

Biology & ecology · 

## Why it looked like it would break the theory

Biologists disagree about whether a host and microbiome form one evolutionary individual or two interacting individuals. This can make identity appear unstable or arbitrary.

## Why it failed

**The counterexample failed** because both major framings preserve DSRP structure. One framing treats the holobiont as a whole with parts; the other treats host and microbiome as distinct identities in relationship. The dispute changes scope, not the existence of organization.

Settled by [R4](https://dsrpevidence.org/resolution/4). Not yet published.

[Read it](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10539-016-9553-z)

[All cases](https://dsrpevidence.org/counterexamples)