Predator/Prey Interactions

ByCarla Bridges

Indiana Standard

• 6.4.9 • Recognize and explain that two types of

organisms may interact in a competitive or cooperative relationship, such as producer/consumer, predator/prey, or parasite/host.

Natural Process

• This is a natural process that occurs in nature to balance species.

• Co-evolution- occurs when you have 2 or more species evolving with each other

• Prey can evolve in ways to help them avoid the predators.

• Any improvement one makes, the other must adapt.

How Prey Avoid Predators

• Avoidance• Crypsis-blend into

surroundings• Defenses- poisons/taste

bad/defense mechanism such as shells, sharp teeth/claws

• Mimicry- look like a species they would avoid (poisonous snakes)

• Senses• Speed• Stamina• Living in groups• Size ( small or large)

How Predators Exploit Prey

• Crypsis• Patience- willing to stay in one spot and wait• Tolerance for toxic defenses• Speed• Senses• Large size• Stamnia• Group hunting

Two Types of Hunting

• Ambush- find one spot and wait (rattlesnakes)• Active hunting- constantly move to encounter

as many as possible– Success rate is low – Group hunting increases success rate

• Dogs vs. cats?

Most Successful Hunters

• Wild African Dog– Ability to pick prey while hunting

• Large Cats– Pick prey before they begin to hunt, if that is not

successful they quit the hunt

Do Predators Control Prey Population?

• 31 Studies Say Yes• 27 Studies Say No

Predator/Prey Simulation

What do you think?

Resources

• http://dictionary.reference.com/• http://dc.doe.in.gov/Standards/AcademicStan

dards/StandardSearch.aspx• Dr. James Bandoli USI Evansville, IN