Differences in predator-avoidance behavior between two invasive gobies and their native competitors.

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Invasive Species Biology
• Behavioral Ecology

Background:

• Non-native fish introductions are common globally.
• Ponto-Caspian gobies are invasive species with high colonization rates.
• Understanding invader antipredator behavior is crucial for invasion success.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare antipredator behaviors of invasive gobies and native fish.
• Assess how these behaviors influence their role in invaded communities.
• Determine if behavioral differences contribute to invasion success.

Main Methods:

• Compared invasive gobies (racer, monkey) with native fish (bullhead, gudgeon).
• Observed prey responses and predator (Eurasian perch) hunting behaviors.
• Analyzed escape tactics, shelter use, activity, and predator capture/consumption latency.

Main Results:

• Bullhead showed less activity and more post-capture escapes than racer goby.
• Gudgeon escaped pre-capture more often than monkey goby.
• Predator success was slower with bullhead vs. racer goby; no difference for gudgeon/monkey goby.

Conclusions:

• Invasive gobies are as effective or more profitable prey than native analogs.
• Antipredator behaviors do not hinder integration into local food webs.
• Gobies may facilitate their own invasion success through prey profitability.