Complex competition interactions between Egyptian fruit bats and black rats in the real world.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Interspecific interactions, including competition and predation, are key drivers of ecological systems. Understanding these interactions remains challenging in the wild as it requires quantifying their effects, particularly the non-consumptive effects (NCEs) driven by predation risk. We conducted a 7-month study in a semi-natural open bat colony, monitoring interactions between Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) and black rats (Rattus rattus) competing for food, where rats also pose a potential predation risk to the bats.

Results

Video analysis revealed that bat responses to rats were fundamentally different from responses to conspecifics. The primary response was avoidance, with bat landings near food decreasing significantly when rats were present. For

SUBMITTER: Chen X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12487382 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature