Gut content analysis of the Gulf Toadfish Opsanus beta

• In Event: Poster Presentation and Judging for: Biomedical; Cell & Molecular Biology; Chemistry & Biochemistry; Marine Science; Systematics & Evolutionary Biology.
  In Poster Session: Marine Science Poster Session

Abstract

The Gulf toadfish, Opsanus beta, is mainly known for their metabolic plasticity and the ability to differentiate food from predators based on sonar sounds. They are mid-sized predators occupying seagrass habitats in Texas. They likely are top predators in this habitat and exhibit lie-in-wait behaviors. Little is known about their natural history, including their feeding habits, especially in Texas. This study investigated the feeding habits of the Gulf toadfish in Red Fish Bay, Texas. Toadfish were collected in the field, euthanized, and brought back to the lab and measure for individual length before dissection. Stomachs were removed, weighed, and emptied. Gut contents were quantified by numerical counting and identified via a dichotomous key. Preliminary gut content analysis indicated the toadfish diet consists of mainly crustaceans and fish. We currently are in the process of finalizing gut content analyses and results will be presented. Understanding diet preferences in the Gulf toadfish will shed light on feeding habits and trophic position of a top predator in seagrass ecosystems.

Author

• Claire Adams, St. Edward's University