On the Adaptive Value of Reproductive Synchrony as a Predator-Swamping Strategy

摘要: The logic behind the hypothesis explaining reproductive synchrony as a strategy for reducing predation of vulnerable offspring (predator swamping) is evaluated by means two simple models. Predator swamping was found to be an adequate explanation occurrence within-season when predator exhibits Holling type-II functional response (specialist predator). However, in case generalist switching from alternative prey (Holling type-III response), which expected common functional-response type particular are unavailable at certain times year, highly asynchronous reproduction may best strategy. In particular, occurs high densities and/or satiation density relative total population, peak rate occur completely synchronous. Spatially clumped population...