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The ideal free distribution and predator-prey populations
A Kacelnik1, J R Krebs, C Bernstein
1Alejandro Kacelnik and John Krebs are at the Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Dept of Zoology, Oxford University, South Parks Road, Oxford OXI 3PS, UK.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 18, 2011
Summary
The ideal free distribution model, used to study competitor distribution in habitats, has been updated. These modifications incorporate individual behavior and explore whether equilibrium is reached, paving the way for new ecological research.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Theoretical Ecology
- Behavioral Ecology
Background:
- The ideal free distribution (IFD) is a foundational ecological model.
- It predicts how competitors distribute themselves between habitat patches.
- Recent research has focused on refining the IFD model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent modifications and extensions to the ideal free distribution model.
- To categorize these advancements into equilibrium-assuming and equilibrium-testing approaches.
- To highlight how individual behavioral traits influence competitor distributions.
Main Methods:
- Review of theoretical ecological literature.
- Categorization of IFD model modifications.
- Analysis of the implications of behavioral properties on distribution patterns.
Main Results:
- IFD model modifications fall into two primary categories: those assuming equilibrium and those testing for it.
- Recent extensions incorporate individual behavioral properties into distribution predictions.
- These modifications provide a framework for empirical validation.
Conclusions:
- The ideal free distribution model has been significantly advanced through recent theoretical work.
- Incorporating behavioral ecology offers a more nuanced understanding of species distribution.
- Further empirical studies are needed to test these refined theoretical models.
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