J2++Predator+Behavior+and+Prey+Response

//The predator-prey relationship between the lynx and the snowshoe hare.//
 * __Key Notes: Predator Behavior and Prey Response__**

•__Profitability of prey:__ //For a predator, this decision would be a no-brainer.//

A predator, when given a choice between two prey types, should choose then most profitable prey. Prey which return the greatest energy reward per unit time are preferred over smaller or larger individuals.

•__Switching between prey types:__ Predators may alter or ‘switch’ their preference for a particular prey species depending on the abundance of that species. Less common prey are largely ignored when this occurs.

•__The effect of prey density-functional responses:__ //A very high density of fluffy pink bunny rabbits.//

It is expected that, when there are higher densities of prey, a predator’s consumption rate will increase and then flatten out as prey saturation occurs. This relationship is termed the functional response and may adopt different patterns.

•__Searching and handling:__ //Grey wolves thoroughly enjoying some delicious prey.//

To obtain food, a predator must first search for prey and then ‘handle’ it (catch, process, and eat it). There is a generalist strategy of searching for a wide variety of prey, and a specialist strategy of searching for one type of prey.

•__Heterogeneity and prey refuges:__ In a simple environment, predators are either able to consume all prey individuals, or the predator population becomes extinct and the prey survives. If the habitat is more complex, some prey individuals may be able to escape from predation in prey refuges and coexistence between predators and prey may occur. Environmental heterogeneity allows predator and prey to coexist.

•__The ideal free distribution:__ //Lions and hyenas often compete for the same prey, which is why they are mortal enemies.//

Predators respond to both the distribution and density of prey and the distribution of competing predators. Predator crowding will reduce the profitability of prey in an area until it is better to move to a less crowded area. Predators should move among sites until profitability is equal.

•__Plant defense:__ //When an insect touches one of the Venus flytrap's trigger hairs, the trap closes, ensnaring it//.

Plants defend themselves from predation in two ways; toxicity and unpalatability, and defensive structures. Chemical ammunition in plants defends them against attacks from predators and parasites. Defensive structures range from trigger hairs to large spines which deter mammalian herbivores. Both of these defensive techniques may be elevated in plants that have suffered defoliation.


 * //__by Lindsey Miller__//**