Effect of Fish Size on Prey Size Selection in Gambusia Affinis

Authors

Wayne A. Wurtsbaugh, Utah State UniversityFollow
Joseph J. Cech Jr.
James Compton

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Proceedings of the California Mosquito and Vector Control Association

Publisher

California Mosquito and Vector Control Association

Publication Date

9-1980

Keywords

food size, large fish, mosquito population

First Page

1

Last Page

4

Abstract

Food size selection of the mosquitofish , Gambusia affinis affinis. was measured in aquaria using juvenile stages of the mosquito, Clllex tarsalb;, as prey. Fish size varied from recently born fry to large adult females. Food size selection was positively correlated with fish size. Mosquitofish fry (6-8 111m standard length) attacked and ate primarily first and second instar larvae. Fry attacked larger instars, but attack success on these was low (0 - 50%). Fish larger than 20 mm attached primarily pupae and third and fourth instar larva. No first instar mosquitoes were eaten. Attack success for these fish was above 65'Yr) for all instars.

Recommended Citation

Wurtsbaugh, Wayne A.; Cech, Joseph J. Jr.; and Compton, James, "Effect of Fish Size on Prey Size Selection in Gambusia Affinis" (1980). Watershed Sciences Faculty Publications. Paper 534.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/wats_facpub/534