Scavenging behaviour and size-dependent carcass consumption of the black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) |
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Authors: | Bálint Preiszner István Czeglédi Gergely Boros András Liker Bernadett Kern Tibor Erős |
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Institution: | 1. Balaton Limnological Institute, MTA Centre for Ecological Research, Tihany, Hungary;2. MTA-PE Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Department of Limnology, University of Pannonia, Veszprém, Hungary |
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Abstract: | This study examined the size-dependent scavenging behaviour of black bullheads Ameiurus melas under laboratory conditions, using common bleak Alburnus alburnus and pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus carcasses. Video camera observations showed that the activity of A. melas was higher at night, but substantial daytime activity was also recorded. Larger A. melas were more active than their smaller conspecifics, especially at night. All size classes exhibited a well-defined sequence of consuming different parts of the carcasses independent of size, but larger individuals tended to consume carcasses more efficiently. Carcasses of the softer-bodied A. alburnus were consumed more readily than those of the bonier L. gibbosus, independent of size. This scavenging behaviour of A. melas might facilitate the invasion success of the species. |
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Keywords: | aquarium experiment decomposition fish carcass Ictalurids invasion |
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