Optimal Foraging: Attack Strategy of a Mantid

Abstract

A simple model of breadth of diet was developed for a random-encounter situation. Predictions made by the model were compared to the behavior of a real predator, the mantid, Hierodula crassa. This mantid supported the predicted behavior. The final section showed that, even though the behavior was as predicted, several alternative explanations were not excluded. In fact, at least with this type of predator, the foraging behavior may reflect several ultimate factors, with energetic efficiency being only one.