Ecology: biology of interaction. 4.11. Predation
Thus, based on the degree of specialization of predators in feeding on particular categories of prey, they can be divided into generalists and specialists. Closely related to this classification is the division of predators into monophages (adapted to feeding on a single prey species) and oligophages (oriented toward several closely related…
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4.10. Diversity of exploitation forms
D. Shabanov, M. Kravchenko. Ecology: Biology of Interaction. Chapter 4. Population Ecology
April 12. Parasitism
4.11. Predation Thus, according to the degree of specialization of predators in feeding on certain categories of prey, they can be divided into several groups. This determines whether it will be true predation or a modified form of parasitism. Non-specialized predators (polyphagous) are capable of hunting various types of prey. They are not very sensitive to changes in the distribution of prey species. This means that when one type of prey is scarce, they can switch to another. Thus, they do not have a significant impact on any single prey population. Examples include urban dwellers – rats, rodents, birds, and opossums, which can feed on almost anything. Partially specialized predators have certain advantages regarding specific prey species, but can still feed on other types. They are partially dependent on the distribution of species within their dietary spectrum. Highly specialized predators, such as cats (family Felidae), many snakes, locusts, and others, are better adapted to hunting specific prey species. For example, the short-toed snake eagle (Circaetus gallicus) specializes in hunting snakes. The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) feeds almost exclusively on eucalyptus leaves (family Eucalyptus). Many harpy eagles specialize in hunting monkeys and other primates. Eagles are considered obligate predators at the top of the food chain. Other predators can be facultative, meaning they can specialize in both predation and herbivory. For example, bears often eat berries and honey, but can also hunt fish. Usually, predator specialization leads to a greater impact on its prey population. Furthermore, specialized predators are generally less adaptable to environmental changes: if their main prey disappears or significantly decreases, they may starve.