Trophic Cascades

Trophic Cascades
Author: John Terborgh
Publisher: Island Press
Total Pages: 487
Release: 2013-06-25
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1597268194

Trophic cascades—the top-down regulation of ecosystems by predators—are an essential aspect of ecosystem function and well-being. Trophic cascades are often drastically disrupted by human interventions—for example, when wolves and cougars are removed, allowing deer and beaver to become destructive—yet have only recently begun to be considered in the development of conservation and management strategies. Trophic Cascades is the first comprehensive presentation of the science on this subject. It brings together some of the world’s leading scientists and researchers to explain the importance of large animals in regulating ecosystems, and to relate that scientific knowledge to practical conservation. Chapters examine trophic cascades across the world’s major biomes, including intertidal habitats, coastal oceans, lakes, nearshore ecosystems, open oceans, tropical forests, boreal and temperate ecosystems, low arctic scrubland, savannas, and islands. Additional chapters consider aboveground/belowground linkages, predation and ecosystem processes, consumer control by megafauna and fire, and alternative states in ecosystems. An introductory chapter offers a concise overview of trophic cascades, while concluding chapters consider theoretical perspectives and comparative issues. Trophic Cascades provides a scientific basis and justification for the idea that large predators and top-down forcing must be considered in conservation strategies, alongside factors such as habitat preservation and invasive species. It is a groundbreaking work for scientists and managers involved with biodiversity conservation and protection.

From an Antagonistic to a Synergistic Predator Prey Perspective

From an Antagonistic to a Synergistic Predator Prey Perspective
Author: Tore Johannessen
Publisher: Academic Press
Total Pages: 229
Release: 2014-03-11
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0124201113

From an Antagonistic to a Synergistic Predator Prey Perspective: Bifurcations in Marine Ecosystems is a groundbreaking reference that challenges the widespread perception that predators generally have a negative impact on the abundance of their prey, and it proposes a novel paradigm — Predator-prey Synergism — in which both predator and prey enhance abundance by their co-existence. Using this model, the text explains a number of issues that appear paradoxical in the case of a negative predator-prey relationship, including observed ecosystem bifurcations (regime shifts), ecosystem resilience, red tides in apparently nutrient depleted water, and the dominance of grazed phytoplankton over non-grazed species under high grazing pressure. This novel paradigm can also be used to predict the potential impact of global warming on marine ecosystems, identify how marine ecosystem may respond to gradual environmental changes, and develop possible measures to mitigate the negative impact of increasing temperature in marine ecosystems. This book approaches the long-standing question of what generates recruitment variability in marine fishes and invertebrates in an engaging and unique way that students and researchers in marine ecosystems will understand. Introduces a new paradigm, Predator-prey Synergism, as a building block on which to construct new ecological theories. It suggests that Predator-prey Synergism is important in some terrestrial ecosystems and is in agreement with the punctuated equilibria theory of evolution (i.e., stepwise evolution). Suggests a general solution to the recruitment puzzle in marine organisms Proposes a holistic hypothesis for marine spring blooming ecosystems by considering variability enhancing and variability dampening processes Asserts that fisheries will induce variability in marine ecosystems and alter the energy flow patterns in predictable ways

Predator Ecology

Predator Ecology
Author: John P. DeLong
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Total Pages: 177
Release: 2021
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0192895508

Predator-prey interactions are ubiquitous, govern the flow of energy up trophic levels, and strongly influence the structure of ecological systems. They are typically quantified using the functional response - the relationship between a predator's foraging rate and the availability of food. As such, the functional response is central to how all ecological communities function - since all communities contain foragers - and a principal driver of the abundance, diversity, and dynamics of ecological communities. The functional response also reflects all the behaviors, traits, and strategies that predators use to hunt prey and that prey use to evade predation. It is thus both a clear reflection of past evolution, including predator-prey arms races, and a major force driving the future evolution of both predator and prey. Despite their importance, there have been remarkably few attempts to synthesize or even briefly review functional responses. This novel and accessible book fills this gap, clearly demonstrating their crucial role as the link between individuals, evolution, and community properties, representing a highly-integrated and measurable aspect of ecological function. It provides a clear entry point for students, a refresher for more advanced researchers, and a motivator for future research. Predator Ecology is an advanced textbook suitable for graduate students and researchers in ecology and evolutionary biology seeking a broad, up-to-date, and authoritative coverage of the field. It will also be of relevance and use to mathematical ecologists, wildlife biologists, and anyone interested in predator-prey interactions.

Predators and prey in fishes

Predators and prey in fishes
Author: David L.G. Noakes
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 223
Release: 2012-12-06
Genre: Science
ISBN: 9400972962

The potential consequences of a predator-prey predators tend to do that increase or maximize prey interaction are probably more serious, especially capture and that prey tend to do to avoid being for the prey, than are the consequences of most captured? The second theme emphasized the eco competitive or parasite-host interactions. For this logical approach to predator-prey interactions. reason, the adaptations and tactics that prey show What are the environmental constraints that in to the foraging manoeuvers of their predators, and fluence the evolution of structures and behaviors the counteradaptations of their predators, are often involved in predation and its avoidance? How do pronounced and even spectacular. Predation may in these factors combine to produce particular ,fssem fact be a critical determinant of both the behavior blages of predators and prey with common adapta of individuals and of the functional and taxonomic tions? The 18 papers presented at the symposium, composition of fish assemblages. This possibility and the ones published in these proceedings, re was a major factor leading to the organization of present the varied approaches that researchers have the Behavioral Tactics symposium. The obvious taken in addressing these questions. necessity of feeding, the wealth of information Several topics were common to many presenta available on food and energy budgets of animals tions: four of these in particular deserve at least both in the laboratory and field, and the approach brief mention.

The Foraging Ecology, Diet, and Mass Estimation of an Apex Predator, the Leopard Seal (Hydrurga Leptonyx), at Livingston Island, Antarctic Peninsula

The Foraging Ecology, Diet, and Mass Estimation of an Apex Predator, the Leopard Seal (Hydrurga Leptonyx), at Livingston Island, Antarctic Peninsula
Author: Douglas Krause
Publisher:
Total Pages: 216
Release: 2016
Genre:
ISBN:

Describing the foraging dynamics of apex predators is crucial to understanding ecosystem function and to effective conservation and management. Leopard seals are conspicuous apex predators in Antarctic coastal ecosystems; however, their foraging ecology is poorly understood. Likely due to a geographical redistribution driven by pack-ice habitat reduction in the western Antarctic Peninsula, leopard seals have been hauling out at Cape Shirreff with increasing frequency in recent years. Utilizing that rare access we implemented an integrated sampling design including morphometrics, biological samples, and bio-logger deployments in January and February between 2008 and 2014. Subsequently, we quantified foraging behavior using: k-means cluster (diving), time-local convex hulls (movement), Bayesian stable isotope mixing models (diet), and linear regression (mass estimation) analyses. While they are typically described as generalist apex predators, video, dive, and movement data suggest they employ specialized foraging patterns. They affect coastal ecosystems through pathways beyond direct predation, including intraspecific kleptoparasitism, predator-induced stress effects, facultative scavenging and food caching. Leopard seal diving behavior is concentrated at night, is both shallow and coastal, and is composed of four distinct dive types. Haul-out probabilities were highest near midday and were positively correlated with available daylight. Video, scat and stable isotope analyses indicate that their summer diet contains four prey groups: Antarctic fur seals, pygoscelid penguins, krill, and demersal notothen fishes. Finally, measurements of body size and mass are fundamental to pinniped population management and research. The recent proliferation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in wildlife monitoring has provided a promising new platform for the photogrammetry of free-ranging pinnipeds. Photogrammetric measurements from a single, vertical image obtained using UAS were as accurate as ground measures, and provide a noninvasive approach for estimating the mass and body condition of pinnipeds. This dissertation provides substantial insight into the hunting tactics, foraging behavior, and diet of large adult female leopard seals and provides a viable option for future monitoring.

Super Predator

Super Predator
Author: Dr Cheryl Jakab
Publisher: Australian Teachers of Media (ATOM)
Total Pages: 19
Release: 2016-01-08
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1742956270

There is something out there deep in the waters off the Southern coast of Australia. The search is on, in an unchartered area of a huge submarine abyss, the Bremer Canyon, for a predator that is big enough to eat a 3 metre great white shark.

Great White Shark and Orcas

Great White Shark and Orcas
Author: Yemson Drey
Publisher: Independently Published
Total Pages: 0
Release: 2024-03-08
Genre: Science
ISBN:

Explore the difficulties that apex predators confront in a changing ocean as you delve into their fascinating world. This extensive book explores the vital function that apex predators like great white sharks and orcas play in preserving the health of marine ecosystems. You will learn about the complex network of life that exists in the water and how these amazing animals affect the equilibrium and health of the surrounding ecosystem. From the core of the issue: Observe the terrible effects of habitat loss and overfishing on prey stocks, which eventually damage apex predators. Learn about the increasing risks that ocean acidification and climate change bring to food supplies and ecosystems. Examine the moral issues raised by orca confinement and the possible harm it may do to these gregarious creatures. Towards a more promising future: Learn about cutting-edge conservation initiatives including the creation of marine protected areas and the promotion of sustainable fishing methods that aim to save apex predators and their ecosystems. Discover how monitoring technology and scientific study are shedding light on the behavior and population dynamics of apex predators. Learn more about the ways you can support responsible policy and make educated consumer choices to help create a healthy ocean. This book provides a compelling examination of the marvels of the ocean and the amazing species that call it home, rather than just a call to action. Ideal for anyone who love the outdoors, support environmental causes, or are just interested in the state of our world, this book gives you the information and motivation you need to stand up for the ocean's top predators.

Primates and Cetaceans

Primates and Cetaceans
Author: Juichi Yamagiwa
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 445
Release: 2013-11-20
Genre: Science
ISBN: 4431545239

In this book, the editors present a view of the socioecology of primates and cetaceans in a comparative perspective to elucidate the social evolution of highly intellectual mammals in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Despite obvious differences in morphology and eco-physiology, there are many cases of comparable, sometimes strikingly similar patterns of sociobehavioral complexity. A number of long-term field studies have accumulated a substantial amount of data on the life history of various taxa, foraging ecology, social and sexual relationships, demography, and various patterns of behavior: from dynamic fission–fusion to long-term stable societies; from male-bonded to bisexually bonded to matrilineal groups. Primatologists and cetologists have come together to provide four evolutionary themes: (1) social complexity and behavioral plasticity, (2) life history strategies and social evolution, (3) the interface between behavior, demography, and conservation, and (4) selected topics in comparative behavior. These comparisons of taxa that are evolutionarily distant but live in comparable complex sociocognitive environments boost our appreciation of their sophisticated mammalian societies and can advance our understanding of the ecological factors that have shaped their social evolution. This knowledge also facilitates a better understanding of the day-to-day challenges these animals face in the human-dominated world and may improve the capacity and effectiveness of our conservation efforts.

The Wolf's Tooth

The Wolf's Tooth
Author: Cristina Eisenberg
Publisher: Island Press
Total Pages: 273
Release: 2013-03-05
Genre: Science
ISBN: 1597268186

Animals such as wolves, sea otters, and sharks exert a disproportionate influence on their environment; dramatic ecological consequences can result when they are removed from—or returned to—an ecosystem. In The Wolf's Tooth, scientist and author Cristina Eisenberg explores the concept of "trophic cascades" and the role of top predators in regulating ecosystems. Her fascinating and wide-ranging work provides clear explanations of the science surrounding keystone predators and considers how this notion can help provide practical solutions for restoring ecosystem health and functioning. Eisenberg examines both general concepts and specific issues, sharing accounts from her own fieldwork to illustrate and bring to life the ideas she presents. She considers how resource managers can use knowledge about trophic cascades to guide recovery efforts, including how this science can be applied to move forward the bold vision of rewilding the North American continent. In the end, the author provides her own recommendations for local and landscape-scale applications of what has been learned about interactive food webs. At their most fundamental level, trophic cascades are powerful stories about ecosystem processes—of predators and their prey, of what it takes to survive in a landscape, of the flow of nutrients. The Wolf's Tooth is the first book to focus on the vital connection between trophic cascades and restoring biodiversity and habitats, and to do so in a way that is accessible to a diverse readership.