Abstract
Abstract Trophic relationships shape ecosystem structure by regulating energy flow and nutrient cycling, impacting prey consumption and prompting behavioral adaptations in prey species to mitigate risks. While much is known about fish antipredator behavior in marine environments, less is understood about these dynamics in freshwater environments. We investigated the antipredator behavior of an Amazonian floodplain fish, Crenuchus spilurus, across different habitat structural complexities. Through experiments, we examined how the number of individuals (1 and 4 individuals) and habitat structural complexity (low, medium, high, and very high) influence the fish response to predator presence. Small groups showed longer flight initiation distance (FID) than solitary individuals, suggesting a possible collective defense strategy against approaching predators. The structural complexity of the habitat did not have a direct effect on FID. Additionally, we noted variations in refuge usage by the fish across different habitat structural complexities. These findings underscore the interplay between behavioral and environmental factors in prey adaptation to predation risk in aquatic ecosystems.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
