The effects of toxics on similar predator–prey systems may
also differ depending on their relative sensitivity to the toxicant,
as shown in microcosm experiments [91]. The authors
studied the effect of several toxics contained in wood-preserving
substances on the pair vole (Microtus canicaudus,
predator)–cricket (Acheta domestica, prey). The predator increased
or decreased the catch, depending on exposure to particular
toxics, probably reflecting increased catching ability or
decreased prey escape. Evidence of toxic inhibition of predator
ability has also been shown in experiments where the catch
of Artemia salina by the grass shrimp Palaemonetes pugio
diminished after exposing the shrimps to a diet rich in Cd [92].