Award: OCE-1948441

The goal of our project was to identify the specific molecules that prey utilize to assess predation risk and to explore whether these molecules differ among various predator species or guilds. To date, we have demonstrated that urine from four predators:  sheepshead, black drum, blue crabs, and stone crabs, induces mud crabs to reduce their foraging rates and prompts oysters to develop heavier, stronger shells.

Employing a metabolomic approach, we have successfully identified three key molecules that constitute a fear signal emitted by these predators, which in turn alters the behavior and morphology of their prey. Methodologically, we have invented new techniques for collecting urine from these predators and developed novel chemical methods for identifying the molecules present in urine that influence prey traits.

Our findings hold significant implications for basic research, particularly in understanding how fear influences species interactions within food webs, and help understand evolutionary processes related to the detection of potential predatory threats by multiple prey to different types of predators. Moreover, our results have practical applications in enhancing oyster aquaculture and restoration efforts. In both aquaculture and restoration facilities, caged predators are utilized to stimulate oysters to grow harder shells, thereby increasing their ability to deter predators and enhancing their overall survival.

 

Last Modified: 07/08/2025
Modified by: Delbert Lee Smee