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Effects of rapid prey evolution on predator-prey cycles
Laura E Jones1, Stephen P Ellner
1Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. lej4@cornell.edu
Journal of Mathematical Biology
|May 8, 2007
Summary
Prey evolution significantly alters predator-prey population cycles by changing cycle periods and phase relations. These effects are robust and occur when prey defense is inexpensive, impacting ecological dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Mathematical Biology
Background:
- Predator-prey systems exhibit cyclical population dynamics.
- Rapid prey evolution can influence these cycles.
- Previous studies indicated significant quantitative and qualitative effects of prey evolution on cycles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the qualitative properties of population cycles in a predator-prey system with rapid prey evolution.
- To focus on a chemostat model with algae (prey) and rotifers (predators) exhibiting evolved defense mechanisms.
- To demonstrate the robustness and generality of rapid prey evolution effects on population cycles.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a chemostat model simulating an algae-rotifer predator-prey system.
- Incorporated genetic variability allowing contemporary rapid evolution of prey defense.
- Extended results to a general model without specifying functional forms for predation and birth rates.
Main Results:
- Rapid prey evolution robustly alters predator-prey cycles, causing large increases in cycle period and altered phase relations.
- Observed 'cryptic' cycles where prey density is stable, but predator density and prey traits fluctuate.
- These effects are prominent when prey defense is inexpensive and when coexistence of prey types and predators occurs.
Conclusions:
- Rapid prey evolution is a significant factor shaping predator-prey population dynamics.
- The findings are relevant to various ecological systems, especially where prey defense is low-cost.
- The study highlights the importance of considering evolutionary processes in ecological models.
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