Feeding Behaviour of the American Plaice (Hippoglossoides platessoides) on the Southern Grand Bank of Newfoundland

Abstract

This study shows that the diet of American plaice on the Southern Grand Bank, at sizes between 40 and 55cm, is mainly A.dubius and brittle stars, the third prey in importance is M. villonun To analyse feeding intensity during a daily and annual cycle, we used three different indices, the mean weight fullness index, the percentage of empty stomachs and the daily ration. The daily feeding intensity shows maxima related to the kind of prey eaten. A.dubius is consumed in larger amounts late in the day (18-24 hours), M.villosus and brittle stars are preyed upon more intensety'between 12 and 18 hours. Maximum feeding activity is in April, with a summer period of relatively high values, followed by autumn and winter when feeding intensity is low. The American plaice shows flexibility in its feeding behaviour, that allows it to consume its prey in larger amounts when they are more accessible; this accessibility may be the cause of its daily and annual feeding cycle.