Intra- and interspecific competition resulting from spatial coexistence among larvae of closely-related caddisflies from the genus Hydropsyche.

ABSTRACT: Caddisfly larvae commonly inhabit freshwater ecosystems, where they often create multi-species aggregations. However, while several strategies have been developed to avoid or reduce inter- and intraspecific interactions, most species choose the same time to seek a suitable place for pupation, which can increase competition. The current study assesses the competitive interactions among larvae (5^th instar) of three co-existing Hydropsyche species, viz. H. contubernalis, H. pellucidula, and H. modesta, analysing their direct one-on-one interaction and various morphological features, such as size, weight, and mandibles. More than half of the interspecific conflicts ended with a draw, and 80% of intraspecific interactions with a decisive outcome. In fights

SUBMITTER: Tszydel M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9233898 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature