Publication Abstract

Unusual stable isotope fractionation patterns observed for fish host-parastie trophic relationships

J.K. Pinnegar, N. Campbell and N.V.C. Polunin

Trophic relationships between four taxa of fish parasite (Cestoda, Nematoda, Isopoda, Copepoda) and their hosts (Gasterosteus aculeatus, Merlangius merlangus, Boops boops, Platichthys flesus) were investigated using stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. δ15N dierences between parasite and host were unlike those conventionally observed among consumers and their diets. In no case were parasites enriched in 15N with respect to the host organism; endoparasites were significantly and consistently depleted. In no case were parasites enriched in 15N with respect to the host organism; endoparasites were significantly and consistently depleted.

Reference:

J.K. Pinnegar, N. Campbell and N.V.C. Polunin, 2001. Unusual stable isotope fractionation patterns observed for fish host-parastie trophic relationships. Journal of Fish Biology, 59: 494-503