Predation and Parasitism Lecture Notes

A series of flashcards summarizing key concepts about predation and parasitism, including definitions, hunting strategies, adaptations, and the dynamics of predator-prey interactions.

What is predation?

Predation is the interaction where one organism (the predator) captures and feeds on another organism (the prey).

Name the three hunting strategies for carnivores.

1. Foraging by moving about in search of prey. 2. Remaining in one place and attacking prey within striking distance. 3. Setting traps.

Give an example of a carnivore that forages by moving about.

Wolves, sharks, or hawks are examples of carnivores that forage by moving about in search of prey.

What is crypsis in the context of predation?

Crypsis is an organism's ability to avoid detection by other animals, often through camouflage or mimicry.

What does it mean to autotomize?

To autotomize is to voluntarily shed or discard a body part, typically as a self-defense mechanism to escape a predator.

What are adaptations to escape being eaten?

Adaptations include size, armor, speed, crypsis, mimicry, and warning coloration.

What is Müllerian mimicry?

Müllerian mimicry occurs when two or more unpalatable species evolve to resemble each other, providing mutual benefit.

Describe the effects of predator and prey population cycles.

Predator populations can cycle with their prey populations, influenced by factors such as habitat complexity and prey switching.

What can prevent predators from driving prey to extinction?

Factors such as habitat complexity, limited predator dispersal, prey switching, and spatial refuges can prevent extinction of prey by predators.

How can predation affect prey distribution?

Predation can affect prey distribution and abundance, sometimes causing a shift from one community type to another.

What was the purpose of C. B. Huffaker's lab experiment?

To investigate the dynamics of predator-prey relationships and how they can be affected by variables like space and resources.