saalistus

Saalistus is a term used in wildlife biology and ecology to describe the act of predation, the process by which a predator captures and consumes its prey. In Finnish usage, saalistus covers the interactions between predators and prey and is a central mechanism shaping the structure and dynamics of ecosystems, energy flow, and evolutionary relationships.

Predation involves various hunting strategies. Predators may actively chase prey, stalk and ambush, or hunt cooperatively in packs or groups. Prey species respond with a range of defenses, including enhanced speed, agility, camouflage, armor or shells, warning signals, and the ability to form groups to dilute risk or detect predators. The outcome of predation depends on predator efficiency and prey vulnerability, which in turn influence predator and prey population dynamics.

Saalistus is distinct from scavenging, which involves consuming already dead animals rather than actively capturing live prey. While some species may perform both functions, primary predation denotes the former.

In research and conservation, saalistus is analyzed through models and observations to understand predator–prey cycles, ecological balance, and the effects of human activities such as habitat fragmentation, hunting, and climate change on these interactions. Tools include field surveys, camera traps, telemetry, and population modeling.