An Integrated View of Predator-Prey Interactions Through Proximate and Ultimate Perspectives

Predation is a highly consequential biological interaction. It has been studied from a variety of perspectives and through multiple experimental techniques. The 2020 Predator-Prey Interactions GRC aims to foster communication between these diverse approaches. The individual consequences of the predator-prey interactions are often asymmetric in the sense that successful predation means terminal death for the prey and non-terminal nutrition for the predator. These consequences have led to a range of adaptations that ripple through multiple levels of biological organization. A non-exhaustive list includes the evolution of crypsis and mimicry, aversion to cues of predator presence, greater cognitive perseverance of environmental signals related to predation, and, the emergence of motor adaptations in the predators. Consequences of predation often ripple through the physiology and ecological interactions and are themselves modified by a change in the environmental conditions. This GRC will bring together researchers studying predator-prey interactions through these multiple approaches to support a synthesis.

Invited speakers are rooted in different scientific approaches, come from different continents, and range from postdoctoral scholars to professors. The conference has ample opportunities for scientific discussion and informal networking. All attendees are strongly encouraged to present a poster at the meeting. Applicants presenting a poster will be given priority if this event becomes over-subscribed.