An experimental test of metabolic and behavioural responses of benthic fish species to different types of substrate.

摘要: Behavioural and respiratory responses to different types of substrate were tested in burbot (Lota lota) stone loach (Barbatula barbatula). Both species showed distinct diel cycles activity respiration rate, with highest values immediately after dusk lowest during the day. In burbot, mean rate over a 24-h cycle was 30% higher on pebble substrates compared cobbles. During daytime, difference increased 86%, but no significant differences found night. The results show that lack adequate shelter may substantially affect metabolism somatic growth rates benthic fish. These effects occur even when predator is actually present not essential for survival. provide evidence current theories predation pressure should be applied community care. Because most these are derived from epibenthic or pelagic model-species, where actual presence threat n...