Stable isotopes reveal a potential kleptoparasitic relationship between an ophiuroid (Ophiocnemis marmorata) and the semaeostome jellyfish, Aurelia aurita

摘要: A diverse suite of fish and invertebrates form commensal parasitic relationships with scyphozoan jellyfish. Associations between ophiuroids medusae, however, are rare. We investigated the relationship common semaeostome jellyfish Aurelia aurita ophiuroid Ophiocnemis marmorata at Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. assessed prevalence association; described medusa size number they hosted; used stable isotope analysis to determine whether O. were feeding on medusae hosts or planktonic prey. Seventy-nine per cent 92 sampled hosted 1 14 that ranged from 6 mm disc diameter. The was positively correlated all >135 bell diameter least one ophiuroid. Stable Isotope Analysis R modelling δ13C δ15N their potential food sources indicated derived nutrition predominantly mesozooplankton seston not medusae. Ophiuroids never observed filter feeding, so we suggest may be kleptoparasites steal host. These results highlight important role supporting pelagic biodiversity.