Simplified Method Based on Bioenergetics Modeling to Estimate Food Consumption by Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike

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Abstract
I used results derived from a bioenergetics model to develop a simplified method of estimating food consumption by largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides and northern pike Esox lucius. Growth data for each of three populations of each species from lakes covering a wide latitudinal portion of their ranges were used together with temperature data to estimate cumulative consumption rates with the model. For each species, a multiple regression with the independent variables of initial mean weight, weight gain, and degree‐days accounted for 99% of the variability in estimated consumption rates. Sensitivity analyses were performed to determine the magnitude of errors associated with the assumptions made in using the model. The following assumptions were made: (1) close correspondence existed between simulated temperatures and those experienced by the fish; (2) feeding rates throughout the simulation period were a constant proportion of the maximum consumption rate; (3) gonad losses could be disregarded; (4) average swimming speed was 1 cm/s; and (5) energy densities of predators and prey were similar. In general, the errors associated with these assumptions were ± 10% of the estimated values, suggesting that the predictive equations could provide reasonable approximations of cumulative consumption rates.

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