Satiation and the functional response: a test of a new model

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Abstract
1. A model of the functional response to prey density is derived to include the reduction in time available for search,Ts, resulting from predator satiation.2. For larger prey items predator satiation occurs at each prey capture andTsis reduced by the attack time and digestive pause of a series of attack cycles. For small prey items predator foraging is continuous at low densities withTsreduced solely by attack time. At higher densities predator satiation occurs after the capture of several small prey items andTsis reduced by the attack time and digestive pause of a series of foraging cycles.3. A comparison of the predicted asymptotic level of prey capture using experimentally estimated parameter values, with the maximum consumption of aphids by larval and adult coccinellids provides a test of the satiation model.4. The limitation of prey capture by predator satiation is discussed with reference to handling time and the success of coccinellids in biological control.