Should "handled" prey be considered? Some consequences for functional response, predator-prey dynamics and optimal...

Area of Science:

• Theoretical Ecology
• Population Dynamics
• Mathematical Biology

Background:

• Classical predator-prey models often assume prey are removed from the system upon capture.
• The Holling type II functional response is based on the density of free prey.
• A key question is whether prey population variables should include only free prey or both free and handled prey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To derive a new functional response that incorporates both free and handled prey.
• To investigate the impact of this new functional response on predator-prey model stability.
• To analyze the consequences for optimal foraging theory.

Main Methods:

• Derivation of a novel functional response accounting for both free and handled prey.
• Analysis of predator-prey population dynamics using the new functional response.
• Examination of stability in a simple predator-prey model.
• Application to optimal foraging theory scenarios.

Main Results:

• The derived functional response naturally incorporates predator interference.
• Population dynamics show qualitative similarity whether considering free prey only or both free and handled prey.
• Significant differences emerge in optimal foraging theory predictions, showing partial preferences when handled prey are included.

Conclusions:

• Including handled prey in functional responses can alter ecological predictions, particularly in optimal foraging.
• The new functional response provides a more comprehensive view of predator-prey interactions.
• This approach may refine our understanding of foraging strategies and population stability.