Early warning in the predation sequence: A disturbance pheromone in Iowa darters (Etheostoma exile).

摘要: The probability of prey avoiding a predator's attack should increase if the presence is detected at an early stage in predation sequence. In this study, we tested whether threatened Iowa darters (Etheostoma exile) release disturbance pheromones that warn conspecifics threat. Pairs aquaria were visually isolated from one another, but connected chemically by water circulating between them. Darters aquarium observed before and after other chased with model predator. control tests, was moved same manner there no upstream tank. receiving fish increased vigilance behavior decreased movement. Vigilant raised their head above substratum, propping themselves up on pectoral fins and/or arching neck dorsally, pointing snout upward. Exposure to disturbed suppressed exploratory resulted movement short rapid hops ended abruptly rigid, alert posture. This study suggests pheromone can provide warning risk.