These intuitive dynamics can be captured by one of the simplest mathematical descriptions of a predator–prey interaction: the Lotka–Volterra model (Lotka, 1925 Volterra, 1926). As prey become scarce then the predator population size declines and the cycle starts again. As prey population size increases, the predator populations also begins to increase, which in turn has a detrimental effect on the prey population leading to a decline in prey numbers. If predators are initially rare, then the size of the prey population can increase. Predator–prey interactions have an inherent tendency to fluctuate and show oscillatory behaviour. We draw on a number of approaches including behavioural studies, population dynamics, and time-series analysis, and use models to describe the data and dynamics of the interaction between predators and prey. The broad aim of this chapter is to explore the dynamical effects of predators (including the large groupings of insect parasitoids) and show how our understanding of predator–prey interactions scales from knowledge of the behaviour and local patch dynamics to the population and regional (metapopulation) levels. Paine, 1966), and natural enemies (such as many parasitoids) can shape the dynamics of a number of ecological interactions (Hassell, 1978, 2000). For instance, the distribution of western tussock moth is known to be affected by a parasitic wasp (Maron and Harrison, 1997 Hastings et al., 1998), the abundance of different competitors can be shaped by the presence or absence of predators (e.g. ![]() It can affect the distribution, abundance, and dynamics of species in ecosystems. Predation is a widespread population process that has evolved many times within the metazoa.
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