Predator‐prey interactions between omnivorous diaptomid copepods and rotifers: The role of prey morphology and behavior1

摘要: Suspension-feeding diaptomid copepods feed selectively on several rotifer species. Predator-prey interactions between Diaptomus pallidus and seven species of rotifers were quantified behavioral probabilities computed. Prey size was a good predictor the probability avoiding prey following an encounter but had little or no predictive value in subsequent levels interaction (capture, ingestion). Three exhibited escape responses which specifically based rheotaxis, suggesting they may have evolved primarily response to selection pressures exerted by suspension-feeding zooplankton. Other defense mechanisms included tough integument long spines- often used crustacean large predatory calanoids.