Antlion Zones: Consequences of High-Density Predator Aggregations

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This study seeks to understand the consequences of high- density predator aggregations to prey behavior and predator- predator interactions. In central Oklahoma, two species of predaceous antlion larvae (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae) coexist at very high densities in a narrow zone at the base of sandstone cliffs. From the prey's perspective, what are the behavioral responses to this spatially persistent predation risk? The foraging strategy of ants will be studied in response to experimental field manipulations of predation risk and foraging reward. From the predator's perspective, what are the interactions between species that occur within the zone? The nature of these interactions will be revealed through a series of field experiments that manipulate predator density and food supply. The results of this study will shed light on the details of predator-prey interactions, and may provide insight into effective strategies for biological control of arthropod pests.