Chapter 31, Problem 42A

Summary Introduction

To write:

The 10 mm mussels are the most abundant. Oystercatchers often do not forage for them.

Introduction:

Optimal foraging theory (OFT) is a behavioral study that helps in predicting the animal behavior while searching for food.

Oystercatchers are one of the few birds capable of opening oysters. A group of oystercatchers are known as a parcel of oystercatchers.

Explanation of Solution

Oystercatchers feeding on the edible mussel is analyzed and compared with an optimal diet model. The oystercatchers usually choose the mussels between the size 30 to 45 mm long, not overgrown and thin shelled. Waste handling events and assessing the prey population is a good agreement. These results are further discussed in the optimal foraging theory (OFT).

Conclusion

Oystercatchers do waste time inspecting prey that are subsequently not consumed.  The optimal size selection is calculated to determine the size selection that maximises energy intake rate. The prey size classes are selected by their profit giving abilities, larger size classes are more profitable than smaller size classes.