Perceived species splits drive predation

When distinct ecotypes behave as if they are separate species, ordinary predator–prey dynamics can appear as ‘cannibalism’ even if the actors do not interbreed. That behavioral boundary can accelerate functional speciation and should reshape how researchers, conservationists, and managers classify and protect populations. — This reframes species definitions from only genetics to include social and behavioral recognition, affecting conservation listings, legal protections, and public messaging about biodiversity.