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Eco-evolutionary feedbacks link prey adaptation to predator performance.

David C Fryxell1,2, Zachary T Wood3, Rebecca Robinson1

  • 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.

Biology Letters
|November 21, 2019
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Prey adaptation significantly impacts predator growth. Mosquitofish that recently evolved defenses against largemouth bass grew slower and were less vulnerable, affecting predator feeding rates.

Keywords:
GambusiaMicropterusantipredator adaptationeco-evolutionary dynamicsinvasion successpredator invasion

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Behavioral Ecology

Background:

  • Eco-evolutionary feedbacks are crucial for predator-prey dynamics.
  • The impact of short-term prey adaptation on predator performance is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the effect of prey adaptation on predator feeding and growth.
  • To investigate reciprocal trait feedbacks between predators and prey.

Main Methods:

  • Mesocosm experiment with largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis).
  • Manipulated prey availability (high/low) and prey experience (naive/experienced with bass).
  • Measured bass feeding rates and growth.

Main Results:

  • Mosquitofish experienced with bass were smaller, more cryptic, and less vulnerable.
  • Largemouth bass consumed more naive prey and grew faster with naive prey.
  • Prey adaptation effects on predator growth were comparable to prey availability effects.

Conclusions:

  • Recently evolved prey phenotypes strongly influence predator performance.
  • Demonstrates reciprocal predator-prey trait feedbacks in natural systems.