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Microhabitat selection of ostracods in relation to predation and food

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Abstract

Experiments with the cyprinid fishVimba vimba as predator and the ostracodsCypridopsis vidua, Darwinula stevensoni andCytherissa lacustris as prey show that conspicuous coloration enhances predation risk for the ostracods. When the ostracods are allowed to retreat into sediment, risk is markedly reduced. ostracods show clear microhabitat preferences which are influenced by habitat structure and food supply. Exposed plant surfaces are visited only if they bear food and if the ostracods are not satiated.

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Mbahinzireki, G., Uiblein, F. & Winkler, H. Microhabitat selection of ostracods in relation to predation and food. Hydrobiologia 222, 115–119 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00006099

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