Can stomach temperature telemetry be used to quantify prey consumption by seals?A re-examination

摘要: To further determine the efficacy of stomach temperature probes in quantifying harp seal (Phoca groenlandica) feeding behaviour, captive seals were fed sensors and given pre-weighed meals herring (Clupea harengus) crushed ice. Ingestion either substance caused a decrease temperature. Results suggested that magnitude change could indicate whether an ingested was prey item or The duration significantly related to quantity fish consumed, but it accounted for just 27% overall variation. This percentage considerably less than previously reported, perhaps due more extensive sampling regime this study. Both ice accounting 69% mass However, subsequent modelling revealed relationship not robust. Despite problems with quantification, combining use telemetry time-depth satellite recordings provide valuable information on location, timing frequency consumption by seals. that, sufficient samples, technique may tool investigating ecology other marine endotherms.