Meeting Abstract

120-3  Sunday, Jan. 8 08:30 – 08:45  Understanding the sensitivity of native and invasive prey to the impact space of a predator. JURCAK, AM*; MOORE, ME; MOORE, PA; Bowling Green State University ; Baldwin Wallace University; Bowling Green State University ajurcak@bgsu.edu https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ana_Jurcak2

Non-consumptive effects (NCEs) of predators can influence prey as much or more as consumptive effects (CEs). NCEs are mediated through the prey’s knowledge of a predator’s presence via sensory signals. The purpose of this study was to investigate a predator odor dose-response curve for different prey species (two native and one invasive crayfish). We used a controlled flow-through model stream to deliver odor to test subjects. In addition, the chemical concentration within the test arena was quantified using an electrochemical sensor system. Bass were chosen as the donor for the predatory odor. Crayfish were placed in the arena with a predator odor source and allowed to move throughout the arena as well as interact with resources. The movement pattern and different behaviors of prey (crayfish) were digitized for the entire 15 minute period. Anti-predator behavior exhibited by the prey were both concentration and prey species dependent. This work demonstrates that models of non-consumptive effects need to include differences in prey sensitivity across different species.