<b>Food spectrum and seasonal variation of the diet of <em>Plagioscion squamosissimus</em> (Heckel, 1840) (Osteichthyes, Sciaenidae) in Piató Lagoon, Assu, Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil</b> - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v31i3.2140

Abstract

The diet and seasonal variations in the feeding of Plagioscion squamosissimus were evaluated. Fishes were captured monthly at the Piató Lagoon, Assu, Rio Grande do Norte State, from August of 2004 to July of 2005, examined at a specific time of day. In laboratory, after obtaining the biometric data, fishes were opened and the guts extracted. The stomach contents were analyzed under stereoscopic microscope, and its items were identified and their volume was measured. Occurrence and volumetric frequencies and the food index were calculated. The items were grouped in seven main categories; shrimp and insects were predominant. The item classification made it possible to classify the species as carnivorous with carcinophagous-insectivore tendencies. In respect to seasonal variations, an alteration of the main items was observed according to the seasons, where insects prevailed in the dry season and shrimp stood out in the rainy season. In regards to capture periods, a twilight-nocturnal habit was observed, and activity periods are also marked by differences in the food type consumed, as shrimp prevailed in lower light and insects in brighter times.