Prey composition and prey selectivity of an intertidal generalist predator, Muricodrupa fusca (Kuster) (Muricidae)

Natural prey composition and prey selectivity of the muricid snail Muricodrupa fusca (Kuster), which forages on a wide range of prey, was investigated. Natural prey composition was evaluated through correcting the apparent diet (the result of observations of the feeding behavior) by the handling time, which was determined by laboratory analysis. The apparent diet and the natural diet should generally differ because prey items that require a longer handling time will be observed with higher frequencies. Multiple regression equations were derived to relate the handling time to prey size, predator size and water temperature. A large discrepancy in the apparent versus natural diet of M. fusca was found in prey species composition and prey size. They foraged on at least 11 species of sessile and mobile prey including six limpet species, and mainly preyed on Siphonaria spp. and Lottia spp. in the field. By comparing the percentage of the natural diet to that of prey abundance in the field, M. fusca preferred Siphonaria spp. and Lottia spp. and did not select the other prey species. The selectivity of this predator was explained by optimal foraging theory and antipredator defenses of some limpet species. The relationships among attacking methods, handling time and prey selectivity are also examined.