Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 11-24-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
John Niedzweicki
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Predator-prey coevolution in freshwater ecosystems often involves chemical communication, where the prey detect predator released compounds known as kairomones. These chemical cues allow prey to alter behavior to reduce risk of predation. In Middle Tennessee streams, the native snail Pleurocera laqueata commonly coexists with predator crayfish, and previous studies have shown that exposure to crayfish kairomones can induce an anti-predator “crawl out” response. This response is commonly demonstrated through snails climbing above the waterline to avoid crayfish predators below. We hypothesized that Pleurocera laqueata would display a similar anti-predator response when exposed to both native and non-native crayfish cues. After running several preliminary trials with native and non-native individual snails, no consistent behavioral response was observed, prompting a redesigned experiment using group trials in larger tanks to better replicate natural conditions. Across multiple trials comparing native and non-native crayfish, snails showed little to no significant vertical movement antipredator behavior. However, Chi-square analysis did reveal unequal snail distribution in three trials with a preference for the near side of the tank regardless of crayfish presence. Our unexpected results may reflect limited predator-prey coevolutionary history, differences in larger snail vs smaller crayfish size, insufficient or interfered kairomone concentration under laboratory conditions. These findings suggest that Pleurocera laqueata’s anti-predator response may be context dependent or triggered only under more intense predator situational cues.
Recommended Citation
McLeod, Daisy V.; Webb, John; Waggoner, Amanda; and Niedzwiecki, John, "Kairiomone Moderated Anti-Predator Responses in Pleurocera laqueta" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 296.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/296
