Prey-Size Intake in Humbug Damselfish, Dascyllus aruanus (Pisces, Pomacentridae) Living Within Social Groups

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Field observations were made on the feeding behavior of individuals among social groups of D. aruanus. The sizes of prey taken were investigated by the analysis of stomach contents. There was a clear relationship between the size of prey taken and the rank of an individual within its social group. On removal of the larger individuals from a social group, the smaller individuals began to take prey previously destined for the former. The movements of D. aruanus while feeding as a social group are discussed. The size of prey taken by D. aruanus may be influenced by the social habit of this species. The relative position of an individual within its social group influences its subsequent prey intake.