An organism's optimal feeding rate is governed by constraints imposed
by processes associated with consumption. In this paper a generic repr
esentation of feeding rates is derived based upon process constraints,
and mechanistic representations of the module processes are illustrat
ed for a filter feeder, Daphnia magna, and a pursuit feeder, rainbow t
rout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The generic feeding rate models are presen
ted in a spectrum of forms as dictated by process constraints and are
convenient for application to a wide range of macroheterotrophic organ
isms. (C) 1995 Academic Press Limited