Prey type influences predator–prey size relationship in Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia: Colubridae)
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Date
2026-05-28
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Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski"
Abstract
In the current study the relationship between predator body length and prey body length in the Grass Snake (Natrix natrix) is examined, based on data from 39 individuals collected in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Prey items were classified into two categories - “fish” and “frog”. A significant positive relationship between snake length and prey length was registered, indicating size-mediated prey selection. The scaling relationship was stronger in snakes consuming frogs than in those consuming fish. Relative prey size differed significantly
between prey types, with fish representing proportionally larger prey.
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Keywords
Predator-prey, prey selection, trophic interactions