Active predators do not necessarily specialize in sedentary prey: A simulation model

Predators employ diverse foraging modes, ranging from ambush to active pursuit of prey. While ambush predators are associated with capturing mobile prey, the specialization of active predators on sedentary prey remains less understood. I examined the circumstances under which active predators preferentially capture sedentary prey. Using a spatially explicit individual-based simulation model, I manipulated the spatial patterns of sedentary prey, movement directionality, speed of mobile prey and active predators, and the presence of competing ambush predators. Key factors such as area-restricted search (ARS) by active predators, uncertain capture success of prey, and prey reappearance after capture were also considered. The results suggest that active predators do not necessarily specialize in sedentary prey. Instead, their prey preference is influenced by prey spatial patterns and competition with ambush predators: clumped spatial patterns of sedentary prey and the use of ARS by active predators as well as competition with ambush predators drove active predators to focus on sedentary prey. Conversely, nondirectional movement by predators and faster-moving prey often led to higher proportions of mobile prey being captured. These findings challenge traditional assumptions about active predator specialization and emphasize the importance of integrating spatial and behavioral dynamics into predator–prey models.