Exotic prey and anthropogenic trophic subsidies in the diet of Puma concolor in Chile

Anthropogenic subsidies in puma diets

Abstract

I analyzed how the invasion of exotic species is reshaping the diet of the puma (Puma concolor) across different ecosystems in Chile. I explored whether, due to its trophic plasticity, the puma is incorporating exotic prey and anthropogenic trophic subsidies, potentially altering traditional ecological relationships. I conducted a review of the scientific literature on puma diet in Chile, identifying records of exotic prey consumption, including lagomorphs, livestock, wild boar, invasive rodents, and salmonids, and analyzed studies addressing hyperpredation and trophic subsidies. Evidence showed that pumas have incorporated exotic species into their diet, including lagomorphs in central Chile, wild boar in southern Chile, and salmon in Argentine Patagonia near the Chilean border. The use of food resources associated with human-modified environments was documented, along with a potential ecological scenario compatible with hyperpredation. The trophic plasticity of pumas in Chile reflects the reconfiguration of food webs driven by biological invasions and anthropogenic subsidies. These processes could alter predator-prey dynamics and increase human-wildlife conflicts, although they may also contribute to the partial regulation of some invasive species. This study highlights the importance of understanding these emerging interactions for wildlife management and conservation and recommends continued monitoring to evaluate future ecological changes.