Metabolic responses of tadpoles to diffusible predation cues

Background/Question/Methods

Life-history theory predicts that predator-induced defences should incur fitness costs. In larval amphibians the most frequently reported cost is reduced energy intake due to lower foraging rates, however, recent reports suggest that this trade-off may be uncoupled through morphological and physiological adaptations. Metabolism is a measure of energy expenditure and  plasticity in respiration may potentially offset other costs of predator-induction.  The aim of this study was to measure the indirect effects of dragonfly larvae on the respiration rate of tadpoles of the Arabian toad (Bufo arabicus) over time and at different predator concentrations. We performed 2 experiments. In the first experiment we exposed tadpoles either to a high density of dragonfly larvae exudates or predator-free conditions and measured respiration rates 3, 5, 8, 11, 13, 15, 19 and 26 days after the start of the experiment. In a second experiment we used 3 levels of predator exudates, equivalent to 1 predator per 10, 100 or 1000 L plus controls.

Results/Conclusions

We found that predators caused a reduction in the respiration rate of tadpoles by as much as 60% in Experiment 1. In Experiment 2 the respiration rate of all predator-exposed tadpole groups was reduced by ~20% after 21 days. The study demonstrates a mechanism by which tadpoles may be able to adjust their physiology to partially offset the costs of lower energy intake due to predator avoidance.