Climate Effects on Prey Vulnerability Modify Expectations of Predator Responses to Short- and Long-Term Climate Fluctuations

Climate changes affect the distribution and abundance of organisms, often via in species interactions. Most animals experience predation, a number models have investigated how climate fluctuations can influence predator–prey dynamics by affecting prey through resource availability. However, field studies shown that vulnerability is key feature determining outcome interactions, which also varies with climatic conditions, body condition or habitat characteristics (e.g. vegetation cover). In this theoretical work, we explore, large mammals African savannas mind, interplay between climate-induced affects immediate long-term responses predator populations. We account for effects on to predation. show predictions responds differ depending influences (habitat vs. condition). discuss traits relative importance different sources vulnerability. For example, our results suggest populations cursorial predators (such as spotted hyaenas) are expected fare better than ambush lions) ecosystems will be characterised an aridification. This study highlights understanding, accounting for, factors associated given pair, improves comprehension relationships changing climate.