The effect of small-scale resource origin on trophic position estimates in Perca fluviatilis

• The influence of small-scale differences in resource origin on trophic position estimates was evaluated with the stable isotopes method. Perch Perca fluviatilis, a widespread freshwater predator, was used as a model organism. High individual variability was found in the contribution of benthic resources to the isotopic signatures of perch caught in the littoral zone, suggesting substantial within-habitat individual specialization. Small-scale resource origin and delta C-13 enrichment should be accounted for to avoid misleading estimates of both the absolute values and the ontogenetic trajectories of trophic position. A conceptual framework using end-member pathways is proposed to estimate trophic position with the stable isotope technique, particularly when marked ontogenetic niche shifts are expected.

Ämnesord

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Biologi (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Biological Sciences (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

ontogenetic niche shift

Perca fluviatilis

resource origin

stable isotopes

trophic position

Biology

Biologi

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)