Abstract
Dietary composition and feeding intensity in relation to season, size and maturity stages of the Gangetic hairfin anchovy Setipinna phasa (Hamilton, 1822) were investigated in the present study. Strong dentition, modified gill rakers, strongly built stomach and short intestine were some of the basic characteristics associated with the feeding habits of S. phasa. Relative length of gut (RLG) indices indicated the absence of any major shift from basically carnivorous orientation of the fish during its various life stages. Feeding intensity was relatively high in stage III (gonad ripening stage) and low in the stages IV and V (ripe and spent). Insects and crustaceans were the main food of adults while annelids and insects were eaten by juveniles. Adult individuals of river Ganga consumed more food during winter than summer and rainy seasons, while the food intake in adult specimens of Hooghly Estuary was greater during summer compared to winter and rainy seasons. Study of food and feeding habits of fishes provides base line information for facilitating fisheries management programmes and sustainable aquaculture.
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