Context-dependent behavior in predator-prey interactions: an evidence synthesis approach

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Predator-prey interactions have long been known as a strong and relevant selective force. Given the high stakes involved in such ecological relationships, chances are that inadequate behavioral strategies will be excluded from the population. These features make predator-prey interactions great models to study the evolution of behavior. In this position, I plan to synthesize the empirical evidence (using state-of-the-art meta-analytic techniques) for two important hypotheses in behavioral ecology, namely: i) that animals can assess the risk of predation and behave accordingly (i.e., performing more often/intense anti-predator behaviors in situations that involve a higher risk), the so called "Threat Sensitivity Hypothesis"; and ii) that hungry predators will become less selective regarding the prey types that they attack "State-Dependent Choosiness Hypothesis". Importantly, I will also investigate the factors generating heterogeneity in the data, by including moderators of biological (and methodological) relevance in the meta-analytical models (i.e. meta-regressions). This project will provide predictive power for future studies on these two topics and identify knowledge gaps, and thus can serve as a guide to empiricists by showing what areas deserve further research. Ultimately, this project will shed light on how broadly and to what extent animals can optimize their behavior facing the challenges of predator-prey interactions.