Predator-Prey Interaction between Largemouth Bass and Bluegills as Influenced by Simulated, Submersed Vegetation

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Abstract
Predatory success declines as habitat complexity increases. To explain this phenomenon, the predator-prey interaction between largemouth bass M. salmoides and bluegills L. macrochirus in 4 was studied laboratory pools (2.4-3.0 m diameter, 0.7 m deep), each with a different density (0, 50, 250, 1000 stems/m2) of artificial plant stems. Behavior was quantified for both predator and prey during largemouth bass feeding bouts lasting 60 min. Predation success (number of captures) by largemouth bass was similar at 0 and 50 stems/m2, then declined to near 0 at 250 and 1000 stems/m2. As stem density increased, predator activity declined due to a decrease in behaviors associated with visual contact with prey. Reduced predation success by largemouth bass in habitats of increased complexity apparently is related to increases in visual barriers provided by plant stems as well as to adaptive changes in bluegill behavior.