Changing risk of predation for a filter-feeding insect along a current velocity gradient

Abstract

Flume experiments were carried out to examine whether larval blackflies (Simulium ornatum complex, Diptera: Simuliidae) use microhabitats with a highvelocity current to reduce the risk of predation by some of their main predators, viz. larvae of the stoneflies Isoperla grammatica and Diura nanseni (Plecoptera: Perlodidae), and the caddis-fly Rhyacophila nubila (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae). We exposed blackfly larvae to four different current velocities and measured their feeding rate using dye particles. The maximum feeding rate was recorded at intermediate velocities (18.8 and 36.2 cm/s), whereas at low (7.3 cm/s) and high (53.3 cm/s) velocities, the feeding rate was reduced. In separate experiments, we investigated the behaviour and attack success of the different predator species. The two perlodids showed a similar hunting behaviour, which was significantly less successful at higher velocities. Drift of the perlodids from the experimental arena resulted in reduced encounter and attack rates, especially in I. grammatica, which had completely lost efficiency at 36.2 cm/s. R. nubila had a slower mode of hunting and was unaffected by current speed within the velocity gradient studied. Drift in Rhyacophila was rare. Observations on the behaviour of blackfly larvae were performed in the same experiments. The larvae showed no apparent ability to sense the presence of the predators except when these disrupted the flow pattern or were in physical contact, which often resulted in aggressive defence, though without effect on the predators. Escape of blackfly larvae by drift did occur, but this was no more common than being captured. In a current velocity gradient, blackfly larvae showed a weak preference for increasing velocities. Thus, at velocities between 7 and 54 cm/s, blackfly larvae appear to select microhabitats with high current velocities, despite a reduction in feeding optimality, thereby easing the predation impact from perlodids, though not from Rhyacophila. The study demonstrates the importance of microhabitat selection by blackfly larvae both for efficient feeding and predator avoidance.