Department of Biology, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton S09 3TU;Population Biology Research Group, Department of Environmental &Evolutionary Biology, University of Liverpool, P. 0. Box 147, Liverpool L69 3BX
Abstract:
We review published studies in which arthropods were presented with a choice of food types at a range of relative densities. Twenty-four of 28 studies showed frequency-independent preference; 11 studies also showed frequency-dependent preference. Both pro- and anti-apostatic selection were found. In the light of these studies we discuss possible behavioural mechanisms which produce such selection; the potential benefits to the predators and the consequences of such selection for diversity both within and between species.