Abstract
ABSTRACT The longtail knifefish Sternopygus macrurus is widely distributed in Neotropical regions, but because of its activity pattern, low recruitment, and ability to hide make it difficult to capture. Records of this species are rarely included in natural history and ecology studies. We studied the influence of both ontogenetic stages and seasonality on the diet of S. macrurus in the São Francisco River, using structure and proprieties trophic webs analysis. A total of 11 items were identified in the diet of 62 S. macrurus specimens: eight in juveniles, 10 in adults, 10 in the dry season, and eight in the rainy season. The trophic webs produced for adults and for the rainy season were more complex, showing a greater number of nodes, links, and link densities in relation to juveniles and for the dry season. However, Decapoda (i.e. freshwater shrimp) was the most important food item regardless of ontogenetic stage or season. This contrasts with previous reports of a predominantly piscivorous diet in S. macrurus. We have identified food plasticity for S. macrurus, suggesting that this species is opportunistic.
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