Predator-induced fleeing behaviors in phytoplankton: a new mechanism for harmful algal bloom formation?

ABSTRACT: In the plankton, heterotrophic microbes encounter and ingest phytoplankton prey, which effectively removes >50% of daily phytoplankton production in the ocean and influences global primary production and biochemical cycling rates. Factors such as size, shape, nutritional value, and presence of chemical deterrents are known to affect predation pressure. Effects of movement behaviors of either predator or prey on predation pressure, and particularly fleeing behaviors in phytoplankton are thus far unknown. Here, we quantified individual 3D movements, population distributions, and survival rates of the toxic phytoplankton species, Heterosigma akashiwo in response to a ciliate predator and predator-derived cues. We observed predator-induced defense behaviors previously unknown for phytoplankton

SUBMITTER: Harvey EL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3460921 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature