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Rapid evolution drives ecological dynamics in a predator–prey system

Author

Listed:
  • Takehito Yoshida

    (Cornell University)

  • Laura E. Jones

    (Cornell University)

  • Stephen P. Ellner

    (Cornell University)

  • Gregor F. Fussmann

    (Cornell University
    Universität Potsdam)

  • Nelson G. Hairston

    (Cornell University)

Abstract

Ecological and evolutionary dynamics can occur on similar timescales1,2,3,4,5,6,7. However, theoretical predictions of how rapid evolution can affect ecological dynamics8 are inconclusive and often depend on untested model assumptions8. Here we report that rapid prey evolution in response to oscillating predator density affects predator–prey (rotifer–algal) cycles in laboratory microcosms. Our experiments tested explicit predictions from a model for our system that allows prey evolution9. We verified the predicted existence of an evolutionary tradeoff between algal competitive ability and defence against consumption, and examined its effects on cycle dynamics by manipulating the evolutionary potential of the prey population. Single-clone algal cultures (lacking genetic variability) produced short cycle periods and typical quarter-period phase lags between prey and predator densities, whereas multi-clonal (genetically variable) algal cultures produced long cycles with prey and predator densities nearly out of phase, exactly as predicted. These results confirm that prey evolution can substantially alter predator–prey dynamics, and therefore that attempts to understand population oscillations in nature10,11 cannot neglect potential effects from ongoing rapid evolution.

Suggested Citation

  • Takehito Yoshida & Laura E. Jones & Stephen P. Ellner & Gregor F. Fussmann & Nelson G. Hairston, 2003. "Rapid evolution drives ecological dynamics in a predator–prey system," Nature, Nature, vol. 424(6946), pages 303-306, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:424:y:2003:i:6946:d:10.1038_nature01767
    DOI: 10.1038/nature01767
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    Cited by:

    1. Chakraborty, Subhendu & Moorthi, Stefanie D. & Karnatak, Rajat & Feudel, Ulrike, 2022. "Irregular harmful algal blooms triggered by feedback between toxin production and zooplankton feeding," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 473(C).
    2. Galina Neverova & Oksana Zhdanova, 2023. "Mathematical Modeling of the Evolutionary Dynamics of a Planktonic Community Using a Discrete-Time Model," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 11(22), pages 1-24, November.

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