New paper about how arena size modulates functional responses

In this paper we explore how the size of experimental arenas can modulate the shape of the functional response, primarily due to behavioral mechanisms associated with thigmotaxis (a tendency to seek physical contact with objects such as arena edges). You can find a pdf of this paper on our PUBLICATIONS page.

Unlike the circular arenas, annular arenas produced similar foraging rates and space clearance rate estimates across arena sizes, confirming that it is the increased density of prey along edges that generates the previously observed arena size effect. Our results provide a key insight into how animal behavior and experimental design must be considered for the accurate interpretation of foraging rates, both when considering standalone functional responses and when making comparisons across experiments.