Disruptive effects of chlorpyrifos on predator-prey interactions of Ceratophrys ornata tadpoles: Consequences at the population level using computational modeling

Large-scale ecotoxicological studies have technical and ethical limitations, both related to the need expose individuals potentially harmful compounds. Computational modeling is a complementary useful predictive tool that overcomes these limitations. Considering increasing interest in effects of pesticides on behavioral traits, aim this study was evaluate chlorpyrifos (CPF) intra- inter-specific interactions anuran tadpoles, complementing traditional tools with theoretical analysis verified by computational simulations. Experiments were developed under two consecutive phases: first phase exposure, second interactions. The consisted evaluating CPF exposed C. ornata (Co) tadpoles acting as predators unexposed Rhinella fernandezae (Rf) prey, different predator-prey proportions. Also, intraspecific three Co conditions exposure evaluated. During phase, induced significant mortality from 48h, irregular swimming, tail flexure, presence subcutaneous air. it sounds emitted after 96h registering less number pulses higher dominant frequencies, altered interaction larvae continued show sound effects, however, antipredator mechanism be operating efficient. Finally, possible model behavior chlorpyrifos. We conclude experimental data matched within errors. Therefore, simulation valuable provides new information allows predicting natural processes.