Production, consumption and prey availability of northern pike (Esox lucius), pikeperch (Stizostedion lucioperca) and European catfish (Silurus glanis): a bioenergetics approach

Abstract

Bioenergetics models were applied for the assessment of food consumption of northern pike, pikeperch and European catfish in drainable ponds of 0.4 ha. The ponds were stocked with known numbers of the 0+ predators. The prey fish consisted of naturally recruited 0+ cyprinids (rudd, roach and bream). The study shows that the impact of the three 0+ piscivores on the aquatic system differs, which is related to the feeding behaviour and habitat use of the fish. All piscivores realised part of their production on a non-fish diet.