Trophic polymorphism in introduced pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) inhabiting Iberian reservoirs

摘要: Introduced pumpkinseed in Iberian reservoirs display marked external morphological differentiation along two simultaneous dimensions of flow and trophic structure. We assessed the degree internal using gill rakers, pharyngeal jaws levator posterior muscle among pumpkinseeds occupying four different habitats determined whether prey consumption accounted for any discernible differences feeding structures ecomorphs. Results showed significant by habitat based on jaw all study reservoirs, with pelagic having smaller than littoral five reservoirs. Gill however, differentiated morphs only three corresponding to zooplankton individuals those Based traits, greater divergence was seen littoral-pelagic axis lacustrine zones compared fluvial zone. Overall noted morphology are likely result phenotypic plasticity; ability this species readily adapt changing physical environments may explain success its introduced range.