Dynamic trophic linkages in a large estuarine system — support for supply-driven dietary changes using delta generalized additive mixed models

摘要: Trophic dynamics within aquatic systems are a predominant regulator of fish production and an important consideration for implementing ecosystem approaches to fisheries management. We analyzed 10 years diet data from Chesapeake Bay, USA, (1) evaluate the effects environmental variables on trophic interactions 12 common predatory fishes, (2) infer four key prey groups (mysids, bay anchovy, bivalves, polychaetes), (3) whether interannual dietary trends were coherent among predators regulated by availability. Based delta generalized additive mixed models (delta-GAMMs), predator length was most covariate in modeling consumption. When latitude, temperature, depth statistically significant, each variable largely similar across given prey. Annual patterns mysid bivalve consumption showed single, dramatic peak shared multiple with varied feeding preferences a...