Vertical food web interactions

Viac o knihe

Recent research has focused on life-history evolution and the structure and function of food webs, often addressing only one area while marginally touching on the other. This volume aims to synthesize both disciplines, emphasizing how organism interactions are influenced by their life-history strategies. To maintain clarity, the focus is on vertical interactions. We present scenarios based on life-history variations of resources and consumers, illustrating how specific life-history combinations can shape trophic relationships. The analysis includes the selective forces that drive these patterns, such as consumer specificity and their adaptation to the spatial and temporal availability of resources. The spatial structure and quality of resources are also highlighted as significant factors. Additionally, the influence of natural enemies emerges as a crucial selective force affecting species interactions and community structure. The acquisition of enemy-free space can confer selective advantages, while the presence of enemies has led to the evolution of various, often subtle, defense strategies. This aspect will be particularly explored through the lens of chemical ecology, showcasing the intricate relationships between organisms and their environments.