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Different patterns of coupled predator-prey dynamics when the same species interact in different locations
1Denver Federal Center, Technical Service Center, Bureau of Reclamation, Building 67, P.O. Box 25007, Denver, CO, 80225, USA.
Oecologia
|July 12, 2024
Summary
In complex ecosystems, predator-prey dynamics are influenced by habitat and food webs, not just species interactions. Multivariate autoregressive state-space models revealed varied coupling patterns between mosquitofish and killifish populations.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Population Dynamics
- Aquatic Ecology
Background:
- Individual predator and prey species often show coupled population dynamics in simple systems.
- The frequency and nature of pairwise coupling in complex communities remain less understood.
- Complex communities involve predators with multiple prey species and prey attacked by multiple predators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate pairwise predator-prey coupling in a complex aquatic community.
- To analyze the population dynamics of eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) and least killifish (Heterandria formosa).
- To assess the influence of habitat and trophic interactions on these dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Application of multivariate autoregressive state-space (MARSS) models.
- Analysis of 5-year time-series data from monthly surveys.
- Examination of predator-prey densities, vegetation cover, and habitat characteristics across three North Florida locations.
Main Results:
- Coupled predator-prey dynamics were detected at two of three study locations.
- One location exhibited classic predator-prey population oscillations.
- Habitat (submergent vegetation) positively influenced prey density but not predator density.
Conclusions:
- Predator-prey dynamics are shaped by species traits, habitat, and the broader food web.
- The complexity of ecological interactions leads to varied population dynamics.
- Habitat structure plays a significant role in mediating predator-prey relationships.
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