Chronobiology and agroecosystems

Influences of seasonal changes on the circadian system were observed in studies of feeding activity in four species of ducks and of feeding and locomotor activity in two species of mammals kept in captivity in the natural LD cycle. Feeding and locomotor oscillators had different sensitivities to exogenous synchronizers. Changes from a circadian to an ultradian feeding rhythm occurred as a result of courtship and breeding behavior in two duck species. Different phases of feeding rhythms in ducks were shown to have important ecological consequences for establishing the species in appropriate time niches in agricultural wetlands. Detailed study of annual, seasonal and daily rhythms of feeding and locomotion measured simultaneously in captivity and in free-ranging animals is necessary to elucidate the structure and function of food chains and webs. Activity rhythms of both producers and consumers (predators and prey) during daily and annual cycles is of special concern. This contribution of chronobiology will further our understanding of the niche of selected species in agricultural ecosystems.