Antipredatory behavioral response in fish prey to the effect of reintroduction of Salminus brasiliensis (Cuvier 1816)

• Grant number: 25/02514-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology - Applied Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Thiago Deruza Garcia
• Grantee: Maria Clara Cazaroto da Rocha
• Host Institution: Centro Universitário Faculdades Integradas de Ourinhos. Fundação Educacional Miguel Mofarrej. Ourinhos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Predation is one of the main forces that negatively affects the structure of communities, directly influencing the density and behavior of prey species. The theory of ecological naïveté of prey is observed in situations where prey is unable to recognize or respond efficiently to predation threats, not exhibiting adequate antipredatory behavioral mechanisms. This work will aim to evaluate, through an experimental model, whether native prey will be able to recognize a predation threat and develop antipredatory responses under the direct and indirect effect of a native predator (Salminus brasiliensis). The results are expected to help understand the ecological dynamics involving native predators and prey, contributing to strategies for reintroducing native species. In addition, it is predicted that S. brasiliensis will impact prey communities, reducing their densities through direct contact. When exposed to chemical signals emitted by predators, prey is expected to exhibit behavioral changes that indicate attempts to evade or minimize predation risk. These findings may provide important insights for the conservation and management of aquatic ecosystems.