Evolution of Aggregation Behavior

Glenn Flierl

Aggregation behavior seems to have both advantages and disadvantages for survival: it may increase reproductive success, reduce predation by confusing or satiating predators, and enhance food searching processes. On the other hand, it increases competition for resources and renders the entire group more vulnerable to smarter predators. We are studying simple models including both population dynamics and evolution to understand the trade-offs and why aggregation might be an evolutionarily stable strategy for krill.