Abstract
Understanding the dietary preferences of different species is crucial in ecological research, as it provides insight into potential competition for food resources and predator-prey interactions. This study investigates the seasonal variability in the dietary habits of four freshwater barbel species found in the Zat basin (Morocco) Atlantor reinii, Luciobarbus magniatlantis, Luciobarbus ksibi, and Carasobarbus fritschii. Stomach content analysis and dietary indices were conducted across dry and humid periods to evaluate dietary composition and understand these species’ feeding strategies and ecological adaptability. Results indicate that all four species exhibited omnivorous feeding patterns a diet dominated by aquatic plants with notable differences in prey preferences between dry and humid periods. From the dry to the humid seasons, L. ksibi showed slight decreases in the dietary index of Baetidae and Heptagenidae (DI = 2.14 to 1.98 and 1.63 to 1.48%). L. magniatlantis exhibited a notable decrease in the dietary index of Baetidae and Heptagenidae (DI = 3.49 to 1.01% and 2.75% to 0.79%). A. reinii experienced an increase in Baetidae contributions from 3.05% to 3.96%. C. fritschii displayed stable but reduced contributions from Heptagenidae and Chironomidae during the humid season. During the dry period, barbels exhibit peak feeding activity. During this period, food is abundant due to the optimal temperature, high oxygen, and clear water, which explains the low vacancy values that have been observed. The changes in diet demonstrate the species’ ability to adapt to environmental variations characterized by a consistent decrease in consumption during humid periods and modifications in prey selection.
Presenters
Abdelilah AhnichStudent, PhD, Polydisciplinary Faculty, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Morocco
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Assessing Impacts in Diverse Ecosystems
KEYWORDS
Zat basin, Barbels, Diet, Seasonal variation, Feeding pattern, Feeding spectrum
