Foraging decisions of bison for rapid energy gains can explain the relative risk to neighboring plants in complex swards

摘要: Herbivores commonly base their foraging decisions not only on the intrinsic characteristics of plants, but also attributes neighboring species. Although herbivores orient food choices toward maximization energy intake, impact such plants remains largely unexplored. We evaluated whether by aiming at a rapid intake digestible could explain multiple effects in complex swards. Specifically, we assessed how spatial patterns occurrence Carex atherodes, highly profitable sedge species, control risk bison (Bison bison) herbivory for seven other plant The behavior 70 free-ranging was natural environment during summer, and then related to characteristics. used this information estimate instantaneous rate individual feeding stations. found that neighbor contrast defense associational susceptibility can both be explained simple rules maximization. Energy gains were higher when C. atherodes consumed while avoiding species which detected defense. lower associated with consumption due an increase handling time caused small size relative atherodes. Bison had consuming instead experienced susceptibility. Because most these least as tall presence increased heterogeneity grazed stratum. Avoiding thereby reducing intake. Overall, adjust fine-scale vertical horizontal sward structures way maximizes rate. principles thus provide valuable framework evaluate broad-range prey faced generalist consumers.