The feeding ecology of mochokid species in River Ase, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The feeding ecology of fifteen mochokid species (Brachysnodontis batensoda, Hemisynodontis membranaceous, Synodontis budgetti, S. omias, S. clarias, S. resupinatus, S. sorex, S. eupterus, S. nigrita, S. ocellifer, S. schall, Synodontis gambiensis, S. violaceous, S. vermiculatus, S. courteti) in River Ase, Niger Delta, Nigeria was studied for two years. Monthly mean condition factors (kf) for all species were above one (1) indicating well being throughout the study period. Feeding habits in relation to three sized groups, diel and monthly variations in feeding intensity were described for Synodontis schall due to adequate data. S. schall fed both day and night but with higher feeding intensity at night. On monthly basis, feeding intensity was highest in December. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between food items consumed during the dry and rainy seasons. All the fish species fed on various food items with detritus being the most prominent food item by consumed by many species. The feeding ecology of mochokid species has been discussed.

Keywords: feeding ecology, mochokid species, Niger Delta

Tropical Freshwater Biology Vol. 14 2005: 71-93