Ratio- and predator-dependent functional forms for predators optimally foraging in patches.
Functional forms of predator-prey interactions are developed for predators optimally foraging on prey distributed in patches. The model uses mean free-path-length theory to develop functional forms for two idealized behaviors of prey in patches. For congregating prey that maintain a fixed density, for example, fish schools, the predation rate has a ratio-dependent form, and predator interference depends only on predator density. For sessile prey, which maintain a fixed patch size, a new predator-dependent form emerges in which predator interference depends on both prey and predator densities. The Beddington-DeAngelis equation is a special case of the sessile form. The model provides behavioral and biological criteria with which to select the functional form and ranges of coefficients appropriate for a particular food web. Finally, the model illustrates that behavior is an essential factor in predator-prey dynamics.
Anderson
James J
JJ
School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington, Box 358218, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. jjand@u.washington.edu
D000818:Animals; D020387:Food Chain; D008954:Models, Biological; D011157:Population Dynamics; D011235:Predatory Behavior