The effect of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) predation on the growth rate of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas)

Abstract

The proximate effects predators can have on prey behavior are well known. Few studies, though, have quantified the effects that a prolonged exposure to a predator could have on prey growth. In the laboratory, young-of-year fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were protected from largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) predation by a perforated plexiglass partition. Minnows within the enclosure were allowed to witness bass predation of conspecifics outside the enclosure.