Food and feeding habits of <i>Synodontis guttatus</i> at Idah Area oF River Niger, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

The food and feeding habits of Synodontis guttatus at Idah area of River Niger, Kogi State Nigeria were studied. Fish samples were collected from July to December 2009; the stomach contents were analyzed using frequency of occurrence method. The fish is an omnivore, feeding mainly on phytoplankton, diatoms, plant leaves and seed, fish scales, crustacean, insect larvae, pupae, worms, fish parts and detritus. The juveniles showed more inclination towards phytoplankton, diatoms and plant parts while the adults exhibited more diverse and complex feeding habits.

Key words: Omnivore, stomach content, feeding adaptations, River Niger.