Predation and Herbivory

Parasitoid

insects that lay eggs in another insect host. Hatching larva eat their way out of new host

Predation preferences

most predators eat a broad range of prey species

Herbivory preferences

herbivores have a relatively narrow diet

Aposematic Coloration

brightly colored species that carry toxins

Crypsis

when the prey is camouflaged

Mimicry

when prey mimic surroundings

Kin selection

benefits include: foraging less, protection, genetics

Compensation

growth responses that allow the plant to compensate for herbivory. (removal of plant tissue stimulates new growth)

Secondary Compounds

chemicals that reduce herbivory. some are toxic, others attract predators

Constitutive Defenses

when the defense is active at all times

Induced Defense

when the defense is only activated before an attack

Coevolution

The improvement in defense adaptations promotes evolution of new predation

Poisons

predators subdue prey with poisons