1
|
Kikuchi DW. Who innovates? Abundance of novel and familiar food changes which animals are most persistent. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20231936. [PMID: 38228174 PMCID: PMC10791525 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Novel behaviours are the raw material of cultural evolution, yet we do not have a clear picture of when they are likely to arise. I use a state-dependent model to examine how individual age and energy reserves interact with the abundance of known and novel prey to promote dietary innovation (incorporating a new food item into the diet). I measure innovativeness as persistence in attempting to capture novel prey. I find a trend towards greater persistence among younger individuals. Decreased abundance of known prey and increased abundance of novel prey also favour persistence. However, many exceptions to these trends occur. These exceptions are critical because they may explain inconsistencies among studies of animal innovation. Care must be taken in experiments to control for multiple factors relevant to an animal's energy budget and foraging opportunities. We may learn more about innovation in experimental contexts by (i) manipulating the abundance of novel and familiar food resources, (ii) directly measuring animal age and condition, and-where possible-(iii) fitting nonlinear models to innovative behaviour. Results indicate that selection for persistence may also favour neophilia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David W. Kikuchi
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kikuchi D, Simon MW. Social learning of innovations in dynamic predator-prey systems. Am Nat 2023; 201:895-907. [DOI: 10.1086/724491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
|
3
|
Aiyer A, Bunuba Rangers, Bell T, Shine R, Somaweera R, Bruny M, Ward‐Fear G. Taking the bait: Developing a bait delivery system to target free‐ranging crocodiles and varanid lizards with a novel conservation strategy. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e8933. [PMID: 35784020 PMCID: PMC9163195 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In tropical Australia, conditioned taste aversion (CTA) can buffer vulnerable native predators from the invasion of a toxic prey species (cane toads, Rhinella marina). Thus, we need to develop methods to deploy aversion‐inducing baits in the field, in ways that maximize uptake by vulnerable species (but not other taxa). We constructed and field‐tested baiting devices, in situ with wild animals. Apparatus were set next to waterbodies and baited concurrently at multiple locations (over water, water's edge, and on the bank). Baits were checked and replaced twice daily during the trial; remote cameras recorded visitation by native predators. Bait longevity was compared at sun‐exposed and shaded locations over 12 h. The strength required to remove baits from apparatus was measured in varanids and crocodiles. The device promoted high rates of bait uptake by freshwater crocodiles (47% baits consumed), varanid lizards (19% baits consumed), and non‐target taxa (34% baits consumed). Targeting specific predators can be achieved by manipulating bait location and time of deployment, as well as the force required to dislodge the bait. Crocodiles were best targeted with over‐water baits, whereas varanid lizards preferred baits located at the edges of waterbodies. When testing bait longevity in ambient conditions, during the daytime baits desiccated fully within 12 h, and faster in the sun than in the shade. Based on studies using captive animals, the “pulling force” strength of reptilian predators scaled with body size and was greater in crocodiles than in varanid lizards. We present the first conservation baiting protocol designed specifically for reptiles. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of widespread and taxon‐specific deployment of aversion‐inducing baits to buffer the impacts of invasive cane toads, and our methods are applicable (with modification) to other research and management programs globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhilasha Aiyer
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Bunuba Rangers
- Bunuba Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation Fitzroy Crossing Western Australia Australia
| | - Tina Bell
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Natural Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Ruchira Somaweera
- Stantec Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Miles Bruny
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Wanneroo Western Australia Australia
| | - Georgia Ward‐Fear
- School of Natural Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mowery MA, Lubin Y, Harari A, Mason AC, Andrade MC. Dispersal and life history of brown widow spiders in dated invasive populations on two continents. Anim Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
|
5
|
Sommer NR, Ferraro KM. An interest‐based rights ethic for wildlife management and applications to behavioral training. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie R. Sommer
- Yale School of the Environment New Haven Connecticut USA
- Yale Law School: Law, Animal and Ethics Program New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Kristy M. Ferraro
- Yale School of the Environment New Haven Connecticut USA
- Yale Law School: Law, Animal and Ethics Program New Haven Connecticut USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hämäläinen L, M. Rowland H, Mappes J, Thorogood R. Social information use by predators: expanding the information ecology of prey defences. OIKOS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.08743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hannah M. Rowland
- Max Planck Inst. for Chemical Ecology Jena Germany
- Dept of Zoology, Univ. of Cambridge Cambridge UK
| | - Johanna Mappes
- Research Programme in Organismal&Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
- Dept of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of Jyväskylä Jyväskylä Finland
| | - Rose Thorogood
- Research Programme in Organismal&Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Univ. of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
- HiLIFE Helsinki Inst. of Life Science, Univ. of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hill AG, Madden C, Reddrop C. Suspected cane toad (
Rhinella marina
) toxicity in a wedge‐tailed eagle (
Aquila audax). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/vrc2.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Gordon Hill
- Veterinary Hospital Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Currumbin Queensland Australia
| | | | - Courtney Reddrop
- Animal Emergency Service Gold Coast Mudgeeraba Queensland Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liversage K, Kotta J, Kuprijanov I, Rätsep M, Nõomaa K. A trophic cascade facilitates native habitat providers within assemblages of multiple invasive marine species. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K. Liversage
- Estonian Marine Institute University of Tartu Mäealuse 14 Tallinn12618Estonia
| | - J. Kotta
- Estonian Marine Institute University of Tartu Mäealuse 14 Tallinn12618Estonia
| | - I. Kuprijanov
- Department of Marine Systems Tallinn University of Technology Akadeemia tee 15a Tallinn12618Estonia
| | - M. Rätsep
- Estonian Marine Institute University of Tartu Mäealuse 14 Tallinn12618Estonia
| | - K. Nõomaa
- Estonian Marine Institute University of Tartu Mäealuse 14 Tallinn12618Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pettit L, Somaweera R, Kaiser S, Ward-Fear G, Shine R. The Impact of Invasive Toads (Bufonidae) on Monitor Lizards (Varanidae): An Overview and Prospectus. THE QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1086/714483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
10
|
Pettit L, Ward‐Fear G, Shine R. A biological invasion impacts ecosystem services: cane toads change the rate of scavenging and the suite of scavengers. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan Pettit
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales2006Australia
| | - Georgia Ward‐Fear
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales2019Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales2006Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South Wales2019Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pettit L, Ward-Fear G, Shine R. Choose your meals carefully if you need to coexist with a toxic invader. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21866. [PMID: 33318615 PMCID: PMC7736869 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78979-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulnerable native species may survive the impact of a lethally toxic invader by changes in behaviour, physiology and/or morphology. The roles of such mechanisms can be clarified by standardised testing. We recorded behavioural responses of monitor lizards (Varanus panoptes and V. varius) to legs of poisonous cane toads (Rhinella marina) and non-toxic control meals (chicken necks or chicken eggs and sardines) along 1300 and 2500 km transects, encompassing the toad's 85-year invasion trajectory across Australia as well as yet-to-be-invaded sites to the west and south of the currently colonised area. Patterns were identical in the two varanid species. Of monitors that consumed at least one prey type, 96% took control baits whereas toad legs were eaten by 60% of lizards in toad-free sites but 0% from toad-invaded sites. Our survey confirms that the ability to recognise and reject toads as prey enables monitor lizards to coexist with cane toads. As toxic invaders continue to impact ecosystems globally, it is vital to understand the mechanisms that allow some taxa to persist over long time-scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan Pettit
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Georgia Ward-Fear
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2019, Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2019, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ferrante L, Najar T, Kaefer IL. Four new anuran defence behaviours observed in the cane toad Rhinella marina. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/03949370.2020.1769737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Ferrante
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA), Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Thainá Najar
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA), Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Curso de Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas (UEA), Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Igor L. Kaefer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA), Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), 69077-000, Av. Rodrigo Octavio 6200, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bringsøe H, Suthanthangjai M, Suthanthangjai W, Nimnuam K. Eviscerated alive: Novel and macabre feeding strategy in Oligodon fasciolatus (Günther, 1864) eating organs of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider, 1799) in Thailand. HERPETOZOA 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/herpetozoa.33.e57096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A hitherto unknown feeding mode among snakes is described for the colubrid snake Oligodon fasciolatus in Northeast Thailand. Three cases of O. fasciolatus using enlarged posterior maxillary teeth to cut open the abdomen of a live poisonous toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus and eat its organs are described. The snakes and toads fought vigorously, and the toads secreted toxic white liquid on the dorsum and neck. The snakes inserted their heads into the abdomen of the toads, pulled out some of the organs and swallowed them. The snakes and toads were adults. All three cases were documented by extensive photographic material.
In a fourth case from Central Thailand, an adult O. fasciolatus was observed swallowing an entire semi-adult D. melanostictus.
The majority of all snake species swallow their prey in one piece, but to place our observations in a broader context we review a number of exceptions.
Collapse
|
14
|
Parrott ML, Doody JS, McHenry C, Clulow S. Eat your heart out: choice and handling of novel toxic prey by predatory water rats. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am19016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated predator–prey interactions between cane toads (Rhinella marina) and native water rats (Hydromys chrysogaster), where toads are novel prey. We show that wild water rats preferentially targeted larger toads, and consumed specific non-toxic organs only. Rats either rapidly learned these behaviours, or adapted them from hunting native frogs.
Collapse
|
15
|
Hämäläinen L, Mappes J, Thorogood R, Valkonen JK, Karttunen K, Salmi T, Rowland HM. Predators’ consumption of unpalatable prey does not vary as a function of bitter taste perception. Behav Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arz199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Many prey species contain defensive chemicals that are described as tasting bitter. Bitter taste perception is, therefore, assumed to be important when predators are learning about prey defenses. However, it is not known how individuals differ in their response to bitter taste, and how this influences their foraging decisions. We conducted taste perception assays in which wild-caught great tits (Parus major) were given water with increasing concentrations of bitter-tasting chloroquine diphosphate until they showed an aversive response to bitter taste. This response threshold was found to vary considerably among individuals, ranging from chloroquine concentrations of 0.01 mmol/L to 8 mmol/L. We next investigated whether the response threshold influenced the consumption of defended prey during avoidance learning by presenting birds with novel palatable and defended prey in a random sequence until they refused to attack defended prey. We predicted that individuals with taste response thresholds at lower concentrations would consume fewer defended prey before rejecting them, but found that the response threshold had no effect on the birds’ foraging choices. Instead, willingness to consume defended prey was influenced by the birds’ body condition. This effect was age- and sex-dependent, with adult males attacking more of the defended prey when their body condition was poor, whereas body condition did not have an effect on the foraging choices of juveniles and females. Together, our results suggest that even though taste perception might be important for recognizing prey toxicity, other factors, such as predators’ energetic state, drive the decisions to consume chemically defended prey.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liisa Hämäläinen
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Johanna Mappes
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Rose Thorogood
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- HiLIFE Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Programme in Organismal & Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Janne K Valkonen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Kaijamari Karttunen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Tuuli Salmi
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Hannah M Rowland
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent’s Park, London, UK
- Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hill SA, Beard KH, Siers SR, Shiels AB. Invasive coqui frogs are associated with differences in mongoose and rat abundances and diets in Hawaii. Biol Invasions 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-019-01965-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
17
|
Kelly E, Phillips BL. Targeted gene flow and rapid adaptation in an endangered marsupial. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2019; 33:112-121. [PMID: 29896894 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Targeted gene flow is an emerging conservation strategy. It involves translocating individuals with favorable genes to areas where they will have a conservation benefit. The applications for targeted gene flow are wide-ranging but include preadapting native species to the arrival of invasive species. The endangered carnivorous marsupial, the northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), has declined rapidly since the introduction of the cane toad (Rhinella marina), which fatally poisons quolls that attack them. There are, however, a few remaining toad-invaded quoll populations in which the quolls survive because they know not to eat cane toads. It is this toad-smart behavior we hope to promote through targeted gene flow. For targeted gene flow to be feasible, however, toad-smart behavior must have a genetic basis. To assess this, we used a common garden experiment, comparing offspring from toad-exposed and toad-naïve parents raised in identical environments, to determine whether toad-smart behavior is heritable. Offspring from toad-exposed populations were substantially less likely to eat toads than those with toad-naïve parents. Hybrid offspring showed similar responses to quolls with 2 toad-exposed parents, indicating the trait may be dominant. Together, these results suggest a heritable trait and rapid adaptive response in a small number of toad-exposed populations. Although questions remain about outbreeding depression, our results are encouraging for targeted gene flow. It should be possible to introduce toad-smart behavior into soon to be affected quoll populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ella Kelly
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Ben L Phillips
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tingley R, Ward-Fear G, Schwarzkopf L, Greenlees MJ, Phillips BL, Brown G, Clulow S, Webb J, Capon R, Sheppard A, Strive T, Tizard M, Shine R. New Weapons in the Toad Toolkit: A Review of Methods to Control and Mitigate the Biodiversity Impacts of Invasive Cane Toads (Rhinella Marina). QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY 2018; 92:123-49. [PMID: 29562120 DOI: 10.1086/692167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Our best hope of developing innovative methods to combat invasive species is likely to come from the study of high-profile invaders that have attracted intensive research not only into control, but also basic biology. Here we illustrate that point by reviewing current thinking about novel ways to control one of the world’s most well-studied invasions: that of the cane toad in Australia. Recently developed methods for population suppression include more effective traps based on the toad’s acoustic and pheromonal biology. New tools for containing spread include surveillance technologies (e.g., eDNA sampling and automated call detectors), as well as landscape-level barriers that exploit the toad’s vulnerability to desiccation—a strategy that could be significantly enhanced through the introduction of sedentary, range-core genotypes ahead of the invasion front. New methods to reduce the ecological impacts of toads include conditioned taste aversion in free-ranging predators, gene banking, and targeted gene flow. Lastly, recent advances in gene editing and gene drive technology hold the promise of modifying toad phenotypes in ways that may facilitate control or buffer impact. Synergies between these approaches hold great promise for novel and more effective means to combat the toad invasion and its consequent impacts on biodiversity.
Collapse
|
19
|
Abernethy EF, Turner KL, Beasley JC, Rhodes OE. Scavenging along an ecological interface: utilization of amphibian and reptile carcasses around isolated wetlands. Ecosphere 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erin F. Abernethy
- Odum School of Ecology University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| | - Kelsey L. Turner
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
| | - James C. Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
| | - Olin E. Rhodes
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen W, Hudson CM, DeVore JL, Shine R. Sex and weaponry: The distribution of toxin-storage glands on the bodies of male and female cane toads ( Rhinella marina). Ecol Evol 2017; 7:8950-8957. [PMID: 29152190 PMCID: PMC5677481 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The parotoid macroglands of bufonid anurans store (and can expel) large volumes of toxic secretions and have attracted detailed research. However, toxins also are stored in smaller glands that are distributed on the limbs and dorsal surface of the body. Female and male cane toads (Rhinella marina) differ in the location of toxin‐storage glands and the extent of glandular structures. Female toads store a larger proportion of their toxins in the parotoids than males as well as (to a lesser extent) in smaller glands on the forelimbs. Males have smaller and more elongate parotoids than females, but glands cover more of the skin surface on their limbs (especially hindlimbs) and dorsal surface. The delay to toxin exudation in response to electrostimulation varied among glands in various parts of the body, and did so differently in males than in females. The spatial distribution of toxin glands differs between the sexes even in toads that have been raised under standardized conditions in captivity; hence, the sexual dimorphism is due to heritable factors rather than developmentally plastic responses to ecological (e.g., habitat, predation risk) differences between the sexes. The selective advantages of this sexual dimorphism remain unclear. A priori, we might expect to see toxin widely dispersed across any part of the body likely to be contacted by a predator; and a wide distribution also would be expected if the gland secretions have other (e.g., male–male rivalry) functions. Why, then, is toxin concentrated in the parotoids, especially in female toads? That concentration may enhance the effectiveness of frontal displays to deter predation and also may facilitate the transfer of stored toxins to eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia.,Ecological Security and Protection Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Mianyang Normal University Mianyang 621000 China
| | - Cameron M Hudson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Jayna L DeVore
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Goetz SM, Guyer C, Boback SM, Romagosa CM. Toxic, invasive treefrog creates evolutionary trap for native gartersnakes. Biol Invasions 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-017-1554-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
22
|
Wijethunga U, Greenlees M, Shine R. Moving south: effects of water temperatures on the larval development of invasive cane toads ( Rhinella marina) in cool-temperate Australia. Ecol Evol 2017; 6:6993-7003. [PMID: 28725376 PMCID: PMC5513214 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The distributional limits of many ectothermic species are set by thermal tolerances of early‐developmental stages in the life history; embryos and larvae often are less able to buffer environmental variation than are conspecific adults. In pond‐breeding amphibians, for example, cold water may constrain viability of eggs and larvae, even if adults can find suitable thermal conditions in terrestrial niches. Invasive species provide robust model systems for exploring these questions, because we can quantify thermal challenges at the expanding range edge (from field surveys) and larval responses to thermal conditions (in the laboratory). Our studies on invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina) at the southern (cool‐climate) edge of their expanding range in Australia show that available ponds often average around 20°C during the breeding period, 10°C lower than in many areas of the toads’ native range, or in the Australian tropics. Our laboratory experiments showed that cane toad eggs and larvae cannot develop successfully at 16°C, but hatching success and larval survival rates were higher at 20°C than in warmer conditions. Lower temperatures slowed growth rates, increasing the duration of tadpole life, but also increased metamorph body mass. Water temperature also influenced metamorph body shape (high temperatures reduced relative limb length, head width, and body mass) and locomotor performance (increased speed from intermediate temperatures, longer hops from high temperatures). In combination with previous studies, our data suggest that lower water temperatures may enhance rather than reduce recruitment of cane toads, at least in areas where pond temperatures reach or exceed 20°C. That condition is fulfilled over a wide area of southern Australia, suggesting that the continuing expansion of this invasive species is unlikely to be curtailed by the impacts of relatively low water temperatures on the viability of early life‐history stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uditha Wijethunga
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Matthew Greenlees
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kelly E, Phillips BL. Get smart: native mammal develops toad-smart behavior in response to a toxic invader. Behav Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arx045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
24
|
Langkilde T, Thawley CJ, Robbins TR. Behavioral Adaptations to Invasive Species. ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF BEHAVIOR 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.asb.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
25
|
Abernethy EF, Turner KL, Beasley JC, DeVault TL, Pitt WC, Rhodes OE. Carcasses of invasive species are predominantly utilized by invasive scavengers in an island ecosystem. Ecosphere 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.1496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erin F. Abernethy
- Odum School of Ecology University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| | - Kelsey L. Turner
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
| | - James C. Beasley
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia Athens Georgia 30602 USA
| | - Travis L. DeVault
- USDA APHIS National Wildlife Research Center Sandusky Ohio 44870 USA
| | - William C. Pitt
- USDA APHIS National Wildlife Research Center Hilo Hawai'i 96720 USA
| | - Olin E. Rhodes
- Savannah River Ecology Lab University of Georgia Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
The impacts of a toxic invasive prey species (the cane toad, Rhinella marina) on a vulnerable predator (the lace monitor, Varanus varius). Biol Invasions 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-016-1097-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
27
|
Cabrera-Guzmán E, Crossland MR, Shine R. Invasive Cane Toads as Prey for Native Arthropod Predators in Tropical Australia. HERPETOLOGICAL MONOGRAPHS 2015. [DOI: 10.1655/herpmonographs-d-13-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
28
|
Jolly CJ, Shine R, Greenlees MJ. The impact of invasive cane toads on native wildlife in southern Australia. Ecol Evol 2015; 5:3879-94. [PMID: 26445649 PMCID: PMC4588653 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Commonly, invaders have different impacts in different places. The spread of cane toads (Rhinella marina: Bufonidae) has been devastating for native fauna in tropical Australia, but the toads' impact remains unstudied in temperate-zone Australia. We surveyed habitat characteristics and fauna in campgrounds along the central eastern coast of Australia, in eight sites that have been colonized by cane toads and another eight that have not. The presence of cane toads was associated with lower faunal abundance and species richness, and a difference in species composition. Populations of three species of large lizards (land mullets Bellatorias major, eastern water dragons Intellagama lesueurii, and lace monitors Varanus varius) and a snake (red-bellied blacksnake Pseudechis porphyriacus) were lower (by 84 to 100%) in areas with toads. The scarcity of scavenging lace monitors in toad-invaded areas translated into a 52% decrease in rates of carrion removal (based on camera traps at bait stations) and an increase (by 61%) in numbers of brush turkeys (Alectura lathami). The invasion of cane toads through temperate-zone Australia appears to have reduced populations of at least four anurophagous predators, facilitated other taxa, and decreased rates of scavenging. Our data identify a paradox: The impacts of cane toads are at least as devastating in southern Australia as in the tropics, yet we know far more about toad invasion in the sparsely populated wilderness areas of tropical Australia than in the densely populated southeastern seaboard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Jolly
- School of Biological Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Biological Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Matthew J Greenlees
- School of Biological Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Berthon K. How do native species respond to invaders? Mechanistic and trait-based perspectives. Biol Invasions 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-015-0874-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
30
|
Beckmann C, Shine R. Do the numbers and locations of road-killed anuran carcasses accurately reflect impacts of vehicular traffic? J Wildl Manage 2014. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christa Beckmann
- Centre for Integrative Ecology; School of Life & Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Pigdons Road Geelong VIC 3217 Australia
- School of Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Toxicity effects of toad (Rhinella jimi Stevaux, 2002) venom in chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus). ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:851473. [PMID: 25045748 PMCID: PMC4090533 DOI: 10.1155/2014/851473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the pathological changes that occur after administering different doses of R. jimi (Stevaux, 2002) parotoid glands secretion to Gallus gallus domesticus chicks. Twenty-three animals were used in this study and were divided into 5 groups that received a toad venom dose of 0, 3.0 mg/kg, 6.0 mg/kg, 10.0 mg/kg, and 25.0 mg/kg. After 48 h, the necropsy and pathological examinations were performed. No clinical signs of toxicity were observed in any group. Macroscopically, hepatomegaly, areas of liver necrosis, splenomegaly, necrotic and hemorrhagic cardiac regions, hydropericardium, dark necrotic lesions of Meckel's diverticulum, and hemorrhages in the lungs and kidneys were detected. Histopathological changes included diffuse vacuolar degeneration of hepatocytes, severe sinusoidal congestion, focal areas of hemorrhage in the parenchyma, swollen cardiac fibers, necrotic myocardial fibers, moderate to acute diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, vacuolar degeneration of the renal tubular epithelium, necrosis of renal tubules, and extensive hemorrhagic areas below the brain and cerebellar meninges. In conclusion, pathological changes of the R. jimi toxins in chicks were noted in the heart, spleen, liver, Meckel's diverticulum, lungs, and kidneys. Most of the changes were similar to those observed in humans and animals exposed to toxins from other toad species.
Collapse
|
32
|
Pearson DJ, Webb JK, Greenlees MJ, Phillips BL, Bedford GS, Brown GP, Thomas J, Shine R. Behavioural responses of reptile predators to invasive cane toads in tropical Australia. AUSTRAL ECOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.12102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David J. Pearson
- Department of Parks and Wildlife; Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Jonathan K. Webb
- Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
- School of the Environment; University of Technology Sydney; Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | | | - Benjamin L. Phillips
- Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
- School of Marine and Tropical Biology; James Cook University; Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Gavin S. Bedford
- Crocosaurus Cove; 58 Mitchell Street Darwin Northern Territory Australia
| | - Gregory P. Brown
- Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Jai Thomas
- Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- Biological Sciences A08; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
van Gils JA, van der Geest M, Leyrer J, Oudman T, Lok T, Onrust J, de Fouw J, van der Heide T, van den Hout PJ, Spaans B, Dekinga A, Brugge M, Piersma T. Toxin constraint explains diet choice, survival and population dynamics in a molluscivore shorebird. Proc Biol Sci 2013; 280:20130861. [PMID: 23740782 PMCID: PMC3774237 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2013.0861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent insights suggest that predators should include (mildly) toxic prey when non-toxic food is scarce. However, the assumption that toxic prey is energetically as profitable as non-toxic prey misses the possibility that non-toxic prey have other ways to avoid being eaten, such as the formation of an indigestible armature. In that case, predators face a trade-off between avoiding toxins and minimizing indigestible ballast intake. Here, we report on the trophic interactions between a shorebird (red knot, Calidris canutus canutus) and its two main bivalve prey, one being mildly toxic but easily digestible, and the other being non-toxic but harder to digest. A novel toxin-based optimal diet model is developed and tested against an existing one that ignores toxin constraints on the basis of data on prey abundance, diet choice, local survival and numbers of red knots at Banc d'Arguin (Mauritania) over 8 years. Observed diet and annual survival rates closely fit the predictions of the toxin-based model, with survival and population size being highest in years when the non-toxic prey is abundant. In the 6 of 8 years when the non-toxic prey is not abundant enough to satisfy the energy requirements, red knots must rely on the toxic alternative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan A van Gils
- Department of Marine Ecology, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), PO Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg (Texel), The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Llewelyn J, Schwarzkopf L, Phillips BL, Shine R. After the crash: How do predators adjust following the invasion of a novel toxic prey type? AUSTRAL ECOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.12058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John Llewelyn
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
- Centre for Tropical Biodiversity and Climate Change; School of Marine and Tropical Biology; James Cook University; Townsville Queensland Australia
- Ecosystem Sciences; CSIRO; Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Lin Schwarzkopf
- Centre for Tropical Biodiversity and Climate Change; School of Marine and Tropical Biology; James Cook University; Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Benjamin L. Phillips
- Centre for Tropical Biodiversity and Climate Change; School of Marine and Tropical Biology; James Cook University; Townsville Queensland Australia
| | - Richard Shine
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Sydney; Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Beyer HL, Ung R, Murray DL, Fortin MJ. Functional responses, seasonal variation and thresholds in behavioural responses of moose to road density. J Appl Ecol 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.12042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hawthorne L. Beyer
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario M5S 3G5 Canada
- Environmental Decisions Group; The University of Queensland; St Lucia Queensland 4072 Australia
| | - Ricardo Ung
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario M5S 3G5 Canada
| | - Dennis L. Murray
- Department of Biology; Trent University; Peterborough Ontario M5S 3G5 Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fortin
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario M5S 3G5 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Crossland M, Brown G, Shine R. The enduring toxicity of road-killed cane toads (Rhinella marina). Biol Invasions 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-011-0031-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
37
|
Responses of Australian wading birds to a novel toxic prey type, the invasive cane toad Rhinella marina. Biol Invasions 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-011-9974-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|