Aspects of the Food and Feeding Habits of Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bowdich, 1825) in Elechi Creek, Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

The food and feeding habits of Ethmalosa fimbriata from the Elechi Creek, Niger Delta Nigeria were investigated. A total of 120 adults and juveniles of fish samples were collected from the local fishers. Fish specimens were caught using cast nets. The natural food of E. fimbriata was determined from stomach contents examination of the fish species. The stomach contents were analyzed using two methods, the frequency of occurrence and numerical methods. The species is primarily a plankton feeder feeding mainly on protozoa, phytoplankton, sand grains and organic detritus.

Key Words: Protozoa, food items, stomach contents