For specialized predators,
for example, habitat complexity can influence the spatial distribution
of the preferred prey; this may, in turn, determine a numerical
response of predators (Solomon, 1949) through changes in their
densities. By contrast, predators feeding on a wide spectrum of prey
species can cope with changes in prey abundance by shifting the
diet to prey upon alternative species (i.e. functional response; sensu
Solomon, 1949).