Trophic ecology of marine fish
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| Keywords |
Behavior
Biology > Physiology
Feces
Lipids
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| Author keywords |
Diet; Ecomorphology; Stomach contents; Regurgitates; Stable isotopes; DNA; : Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids; Trophic guilds; Global change |
| Authors | | Top |
- Carassou, L.
- Benhaïm, D.
- Vagner, M.
- Lobry, J.
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| Abstract |
Fish represent the most diverse and abundant group of vertebrates on Earth, and as such, the diversity of trophic strategies observed in marine fishes is outstanding. Morphology can inform about species trophic ecology according to the “ecomorphology” hypothesis, which is first described in the chapter. Second, some of the multiple other methods used to detail the diet of marine fishes (stomach content and regurgitate analyses, trophic biomarkers such as stable isotopes and fatty acids, and DNA-based approaches) are addressed. Third, the behavioral and physiological adaptations associated with marine fish feeding are developed. Behavioral adaptations considered include foraging behavior and factors influencing it, the role of senses in these behavioral strategies, endocrine and metabolic control of feeding, feeding rhythms, resource polymorphism, and the influence of individual personality on foraging behavior. Physiological adaptations considered include the acquisition and synthesis pathways of some dietary essential components in marine fishes, with particular emphasis on the role of essential long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids on the physiological performance of marine fishes in the context of global change. Sources of synthesis of highly unsaturated fatty acids for fish are also addressed, and processes of de novo production of these fatty acids in marine fishes are explained. The impact of global change on the availability of these essential components of fish physiology and performance is then examined. Research on the ecology, physiology, and ethology of marine fish feeding is still needed to better understand how fish species can optimize resource use in changing environments in the context of global change, and how to improve the sustainability of aquaculture programs. |
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