Trophic Duality: Taxonomic Segregation and Convergence in Prey Functional Traits Driving the Coexistence of Apex Predators.

ABSTRACT: The coexistence of functionally similar predators offers a framework for understanding the mechanisms shaping ecological communities. Jaguars and pumas are broadly sympatric in the Neotropics, yet the processes sustaining their persistence remain unclear. Classical niche theory predicts that coexistence requires ecological differentiation, whereas modern models emphasize balancing stabilizing (reducing interspecific competition) and equalizing mechanisms (minimizing fitness differences). Although demographic components were not directly estimated, we integrated secondary dietary data compiled from 21 sympatric populations through a systematic literature review. This integration allowed us to identify trophic patterns consistent with coexistence mechanisms across taxonomic and functional pr

SUBMITTER: Entringer H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12784996 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature