biostudies-literatureUnknown91(9)Lorusso NSApparent competition is one mechanism that can contribute to the complex dynamics observed in natural systems, yet it remains understudied in empirical systems. Understanding the dynamics that shape the outcome of processes like apparent competition is vital for appreciating how they influence natural systems. We empirically evaluated the role of indirect trophic interactions in driving apparent competition in a model laboratory system. Our experimental system was designed to let us evaluate combined direct and indirect interactions among species. Here we describe the results of a factorial experiment using two noncompeting prey (Colpidium kleini, a heterotroph, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, an autotroph) consumed by a generalist predator Euplotes eurystomus to explore the dynamics of appThe Journal of animal ecology1869-1879https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC9544837biostudies-literatureIndirect facilitation between prey promotes asymmetric apparent competition.PMC9544837Lorusso NSFaillace CAfalseIndirect facilitation between prey promotes asymmetric apparent competition.Apparent competition is one mechanism that can contribute to the complex dynamics observed in natural systems, yet it remains understudied in empirical systems. Understanding the dynamics that shape the outcome of processes like apparent competition is vital for appreciating how they influence natural systems. We empirically evaluated the role of indirect trophic interactions in driving apparent competition in a model laboratory system. Our experimental system was designed to let us evaluate combined direct and indirect interactions among species. Here we describe the results of a factorial experiment using two noncompeting prey (Colpidium kleini, a heterotroph, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, an autotroph) consumed by a generalist predator Euplotes eurystomus to explore the dynamics of app2022-01-01T00:00:00Z2022 Sep2026-03-31T11:54:44.689Z2025-04-06T00:11:47.46ZS-EPMC95448373576592510.1111/1365-2656.13768