Date Approved
2006
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department or School
Biology
Committee Member
Dr. Cara Shillington, Chair
Committee Member
Dr. Peter Bednekoff
Committee Member
Dr. Tamara Greco
Abstract
This study examined the effect of different periods of food deprivation on resting metabolic rates (RMR) and foraging activities in tarantulas (Phormictopus cancerides). Juvenile tarantulas were separated into two feeding groups and fed once either every 5 or 30 days. Monthly feeding trials were preceded by RMR measurements. During feeding trials I compared differences between the two groups in (1) prey capture rates, (2) time to prey capture, (3) locomotory activity, and (4) the predator’s prey detection distance. RMRs increased for the well-fed group but remained consistent for individuals, fed only once a month. Time to prey capture decreased for food-limited individuals, and the proportion of individuals that ate in the 30-day group was higher than in the well-fed group, but the results for locomotory activity and detection distances were inconclusive. Overall, changes in metabolism and behavior were more noticeable in the well-fed group compared to individuals fed once a month.
Recommended Citation
Philip, Benjamin Nathan, "The effect of prey availability on metabolism and activity in the tarantula phormictopus cancerides (araneae: theraphosidae)" (2006). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 82.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/82