Predation risk affects growth and reproduction of an invasive snail and its lethal effect depends on prey size.

ABSTRACT: The behavior of invasive species under predation risk has been studied extensively, but their growth and reproductive responses have rarely been investigated. We conducted experiments with juveniles and adults of the invasive freshwater snail Pomacea canaliculata, and we observed changes in growth and reproduction in response to predation risk from a caged predator (Trachemys scripta elegans). P. canaliculata produced eggs earlier in the presence of predators and injured conspecifics compared with the control group (no risk), although the total number of egg masses laid by per female was exceeded by that of the controls after 15 days. Egg hatching success noticeably decreased under predation risk, and the incubation period was significantly prolonged; however, the oviposition height of the

SUBMITTER: Guo J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5685626 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature