Ontogenetic Shift in Response to Amphibian Alarm Cues by Banded Sculpins (Cottus carolinae)
We exposed two size classes of Banded Sculpins, Cottus carolinae, to alarm cue secretions from an adult Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis) or to a blank control and examined foraging responses. Banded Sculpins exhibited size-dependent responses, with small individuals exhibiting avoidance behavior and large individuals exhibiting increased foraging behavior. These data suggest that Banded Sculpins undergo an ontogenetic shift in response to Hellbender alarm cues that corresponds to changes in predation risk and foraging profitability.
Mean (± SE) latency to first approach (A), latency to strike (B), and number of strikes (C) for large and small sculpin exposed to dechlorinated water (control) and Hellbender secretions. Interaction effects: P = 0.061, 0.036, 0.038, respectively. Connecting lines are included to indicate trends.
Contributor Notes
Associate Editor: J. W. Snodgrass.