Differential effects of warming and acidification on chemosensory transmission and detection may strengthen non-consumptive effects of blue crab predators (Callinectes sapidus) on mud crab prey (Panopeus herbstii)

Predators control prey abundance and behavior, both of which strongly influence community dynamics. However, the relative importance these predator effects may shift with climate change stressors, suggesting understanding potential on different processes is critical to predicting function. We investigated global warming ocean acidification transmission detection chemical cues from blue crab predators ( Callinectes sapidus ) by mud Panopeus herbstii ). measured feeding rates in presence cues, using either stressed acidified conditions or crabs warmed conditions. Mud consumed less food but acidifying subjecting receiving environment did not affect this antipredator response. significantly regardless cue, effect was reversed ambient Therefore, produce shifts regulation as potentially compromises consumptive reducing motor function, whereas non-consumptive mediated sensory remain unaffected acidification. Overall, have stronger than dynamics oyster reefs temperatures continue rise.