The detection of certain predators via olfaction by small-mouthed salamander larvae (Ambystoma texanum)

Larvae of the small-mouthed salamander (Ambystoma texanum) showed an increase in refuge use when exposed to chemical cues from a predaceous fish. The percentage of time spent outside of refuge was significantly reduced relative to controls when larvae were exposed to chemical cues from fish, but was not different from the controls when larvae were exposed to chemical cues from three other potential predators. A. texanum larvae responded to these chemical cues via olfaction. Larvae that had their external nares plugged with a gelatinous paste did not respond to fish cues, while sham-treated larvae showed an avoidance of fish cues.