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Random search models of foraging behavior: Theory, simulation, and observation
Abstract
Many organisms, from bacteria to primates, use stochastic movement patterns to find food. These movement patterns, known as search strategies, have recently be- come a focus of ecologists interested in identifying universal properties of optimal foraging behavior. In this dissertation, I describe three contributions to this field. First, I propose a way to extend Charnov's Marginal Value Theorem to the spatially explicit framework of stochastic search strategies. Next, I describe simulations that compare the efficiencies of sensory and memory-based composite search strategies, which involve switching between different behavioral modes. Finally, I explain a new behavioral analysis protocol for identifying the factors that influence pollinator for- aging. The utility of this protocol is demonstrated using data gathered on sweat bees (Agapostemon) in Western Nebraska.
Subject Area
Ecology|Applied Mathematics|Mathematics
Recommended Citation
Nolting, Ben C, "Random search models of foraging behavior: Theory, simulation, and observation" (2013). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI3604633.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI3604633