Feeding behaviour of the kelp clingfish Rimicola muscarum residing on the kelp Macrocystis integrifolia

Abstract

The feeding behaviour of the kelp clingfish Rimicola muscarum Meek and Pierson residing on the blades of the kelp Macrocystis integrifolia Bory was described. The fish seized small invertebrates, mainly harpacticoid copepods, which were closely associated with the kelp blades. A four-step food chain involving R. muscarum was qualitatively determined. Diatoms epiphytic on the kelp blades were grazed by harpacticoid copepods. These and other small invertebrates were captured by the clingfish, which in turn was eaten by the black rockfish, Sebastes melanops, and the shiner perch, Cymatogaster aggregata.