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The ecological play of predator–prey dynamics in an evolutionary theatre

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Abstract

Although over 40 years of theory have addressed how evolutionary processes can affect the ecology of predator–prey interactions, few empirical data have addressed the same issue. Shertzer et al. and Yoshida et al. have recently combined manipulative experiments with mathematical models to demonstrate that evolutionary change in an algal prey strongly affects community dynamics with their rotifer predator. These studies contribute to recent developments in community genetics and the diversity–stability debate.

Section snippets

Experimental support for past theory

A previous synthesis of theory about how evolution can affect population cycles has led to several general predictions [5], which are supported by the Brachionus–Chlorella system. First, evolution of either the predator or prey is most likely to affect predator–prey dynamics when natural selection results in rapid evolution. This condition is clearly met in Brachionus-Chlorella chemostat communities, and adds to an increasing list of examples of rapid evolution [12]. Second, predator–prey

Community genetics and the diversity–stability relationship

The results of Shertzer et al. and Yoshida et al. emphasize the importance of studying species interactions within a community genetics framework. Community genetics is the study of intraspecific genetic variation and its ecological and evolutionary consequences within communities [14]. An increasing number of studies have taken such an approach to understand species interactions. For example, Whitham and colleagues studied the macroecological significance of evolutionary processes [15]. In

Future directions

Recent theoretical and empirical research on the biology of predator–prey interactions shows the clear benefit of combining ecology and evolution under the single umbrella of community genetics 14, 21. Within this emerging field, the time is ripe to test questions extending on the work of Yoshida and colleagues. Does coevolution occur on the same time scale as predator–prey cycles, where cycles and evolution in the prey are accompanied by rapid evolution in the offensive traits of the predator

Acknowledgements

We are grateful for comments and suggestions from P. Abrams, C. Brassil, S. Ellner, W. Godsoe, N. Hairston Jr, L. Jones, K. Shertzer, A. Sih, D. Viswanathan, T. Whitham and T. Yoshida. Our research (http://www.herbivory.com) is funded by grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada to M.T.J.J. and A.A.A., and a Sigma Xi GIAR to M.T.J.J.

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