Water depth modifies relative predation risk for a motile fish taxon in Bahamian tidal creeks

Abstract

We evaluated the influence of water depth on relative predation risk for mojarra (Eucinostomus spp.) in six tidal creeks on Andros Island, Bahamas. Relative predation risk was determined using a tethering protocol combined with underwater visual census. In one experiment, we found that relative predation risk increased predictably with water depth (r2 = 0.83), and survival of tethered mojarra decreased with water depth (r2 = 0.71). We identified three depth zones containing differing levels of predation threat: refugia (0–19 cm), transition (20–69 cm), and predation (> 70 cm). Predation on mojarra rarely occurred within the refugia zone (2% eaten) and always in the predation zone (100% eaten). Additional factors not examined in this study (e.g., mangrove complexity, predator density) likely drive variability of relative predation risk within the transition zone. In a second experiment, we directly examined influence of water depth on relative predation risk at fixed locations from high tide to low tide in a single creek. Mean relative predation risk was significantly higher during higher tides at deeper water depths. Results provide experimental evidence that exploitation of shallow water refugia by motile prey can significantly reduce predation risk. We expect the distribution of motile fishes is at least partially influenced by spatially-dynamic shallow water refugia.