What is the term for the non-lethal impact of predation on prey populations? 🔊
The non-lethal impact of predation on prey populations is referred to as non-consumptive effects. This concept encompasses the stress and behavioral changes prey experience due to the presence of predators, which can affect their foraging, habitat selection, and reproductive success. Such effects can lead to shifts in prey population dynamics and ecosystem structure, as prey may avoid certain areas, resulting in altered community interactions and changes in biodiversity. Non-consumptive effects highlight the complexity of predator-prey relationships beyond mere consumption.
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