Summary
One organism hunts and consumes another, shaping prey populations and driving adaptations.
In depth
Predators regulate prey and drive adaptations such as camouflage, mimicry and chemical defence. Predator-prey cycles are seen as lagged oscillations, as in Canadian lynx and snowshoe hare records. Prey switching and refuges stabilise systems.
Functional response describes how intake rate varies with prey density (types I, II, III). Numerical response is the change in predator numbers. Prey refuges stabilise dynamics.
Example: predators may switch to the most abundant prey.
Frequently asked questions
What is Predation?
One organism hunts and consumes another, shaping prey populations and driving adaptations.
Which area of biology covers Predation, and how advanced is it?
Predation is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Lotka-Volterra Models, Limiting Factors, Trophic Cascade.
Can you give an example of Predation?
Ladybird beetles control aphids in farms.
What should I learn before Predation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Ecology first, such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors, then return to Predation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Predation?
The closest topics to Predation are Lotka-Volterra Models, Limiting Factors, Trophic Cascade, Population. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Predation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Predation. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Predation different from Lotka-Volterra Models?
Predation: One organism hunts and consumes another, shaping prey populations and driving adaptations. Lotka-Volterra Models: Differential equations describing oscillating predator and prey populations. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Predation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Lotka-Volterra Models and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.