Distribution and feeding of fish from Anostomidae family in Ibicui River, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Abstract

The aim of this work was evaluate aspects of distribution and feeding habits of six species of Anostomidae. Gillnets and trammel nets were used in lotic and lentic environment in Ibicui River. The specimens were measured and weighed, and in laboratory were dissected for evaluation of stomach contents and determination of Intestinal Quotient. The species Leporinus lacustris showed a preference for lentic environment, Leporinus striatus and Schizodon platae for lotic environment. The species of the genus Leporinusshowed an omnivorous diet with a greater variety of consumed items in relation to Schizodon, which showed an herbivorous diet. Detritus was the most consumed item by species of Leporinus genus and plant in decomposition was the most consumed by Schizodon. The Intestinal Quotient agree with observed for others omnivorous species, however in Schizodon platae and Schizodon nasutusthis parameter is lower than found for other herbivorous species.