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Multi-elemental consumer-driven nutrient cycling when predators feed on different prey.

Colton Herzog1, Jacob T Reeves2, Yetkin Ipek2

  • 1Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, USA. Colton.herzog@okstate.edu.

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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Predator diet and season significantly alter nutrient cycling. Wolf spiders excreted different elemental concentrations based on prey type and season, impacting ecosystem nutrient composition.

Keywords:
Elemental assimilationPredator–prey interactionsSeasonalityTrace elementsWolf spiders

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Nutrient Cycling
  • Predator-Prey Dynamics

Background:

  • Predators are crucial for nutrient cycling by modifying waste and uneaten prey.
  • Elemental composition of prey and predator waste varies based on retention and excretion patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate how different prey types affect elemental concentrations in wolf spider excreta.
  • To determine seasonal variations in elemental deposition by wolf spiders.

Main Methods:

  • Wolf spiders were fed four different prey types (caterpillars, cockroaches, crickets, flies).
  • Elemental concentrations (23 elements) in spider excreta and prey were analyzed.
  • Samples were collected across two seasons: spring and fall.

Main Results:

  • Spider excreta showed lower carbon but higher concentrations of Al, B, Ba, K, Li, P, S, Si, and Sr compared to prey.
  • Elemental concentrations in unconsumed prey varied by species, while spider excreta showed less variation.
  • Seasonal differences were observed: fall excreta had higher Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, S, V; spring excreta had higher Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, K, P, Na, Si, Sr, Zn.

Conclusions:

  • Prey identity and seasonal changes significantly influence the role of predators in regulating elemental cycling.
  • Understanding these predator-prey nutritional interactions is key to deciphering consumer-driven ecosystem functions.