Predator population vs prey population3/29/2024 ![]() Therefore, in this Perspective, we investigate whether and how the strength of predator-prey interactions differs between structurally simple versus complex habitats through a systematic review and meta-analysis of the experimental studies conducted to date. The research on the “predation pressure-complex habitat” relationship is disparate and has not yet been synthesised. There is, however, substantial evidence that predation pressure is negatively associated with both prey diversity and biomass 7, 8 and, if predation pressure is lower in complex habitats, this could result in greater species richness and abundance. ![]() ![]() Similar content being viewed by othersĮven though habitat complexity can lead to increased species richness and abundance 1, 2, 3, and is gaining traction as a strategy in restoration programmes 4, 5, 6, exactly how complexity has these effects remains unclear. This knowledge can be used in restoration and ecological engineering projects to maximise species diversity and abundance gains. Easing predation pressure, in conjunction with increased resources for prey, could help explain the high biodiversity and abundance found in complex habitats. However, the effects are less clear in terrestrial ecosystems. Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies, reduced predation pressure in complex habitats is consistent across freshwater and marine ecosystems, field and laboratory experiments, different hunting modes of predators, and different numbers of prey species. In this Perspective, we postulate that reduced predation pressure in complex habitats could contribute to increased prey diversity and abundance. Habitat complexity is positively associated with biodiversity and abundance and is often a focus of habitat restoration programmes, however, the mechanisms underlying these relationships are not yet resolved.
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