Feeding habits of mullet fry in the Arno River (Tyrrhenian coast). I. Daily feeding cycle

Abstract

The daily feeding rhythms of five species of mullet fry (Liza ramada, Liza aurata, Liza saliens, Mugil cephalus and Chelon labrosus) were investigated by analyzing their stomach fullness during 24‐hour cycles. Light is the major abiotic factor influencing the feeding rhythm of the fry. Feeding activity occurs prevalently during day‐time with a clear unimodal feeding cycle. Only L. saliens fry show a bimodal feeding cycle, with a secondary peak around sunset. Differences in the feeding activity rhythm are probably due to larger individuals which, unlike the smaller individuals, show preferential twilight feeding. Tides and temperature play a secondary role and their influence is probably masked by the light effect.

Key words:

• Mullets
• Feeding cycle
• Mugil
• Liza
• Chelon