Abstract for presentation at Biodiversity Extinction Crisis Conference - A Pacific Response

Apex predators have been shown to exert a profound influence on many ecosystems. Strongly interactive predators can influence the abundance, distribution and behaviour of other species, often exerting influences that extend through several trophic levels. When such predators are removed, previously subordinate predators can increase in abundance or change their behaviour in such a way that community dynamics are profoundly altered. This phenomenon, known as mesopredator release, can constitute one link in a larger trophic cascade, with potentially disastrous effects on biodiversity.

Emerging evidence increasingly suggests that removal of dingoes (Canis lupus dingo) can lead to mesopredator release of the introduced red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cat (Felis catus). In turn, this can have deleterious effects on populations of native Australian prey. Cascading effects may ultimately influence the diversity and biomass of vegetation. There is also evidence that the social structure of dingoes is of great importance. In areas subject to minimal human interference, dingo packs may more effectively suppress cats and foxes, while having fewer undesirable impacts such as predation on livestock.

Here, I provide a brief overview of the evidence for the dingo as a strongly interactive predator, and stress the need to test its ecological role experimentally. Research should seek to clarify the ecological impacts of dingoes at all trophic levels, as well as the mechanisms behind these.