Date of Award
Summer 7-23-2015
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Integrative Biology (MSIB)
Department
Biology
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Dr. William Ensign
Major Professor
Dr. Troy Mutchler
Second Committee Member
Dr. Jared Taglialatela
Abstract
Mesograzers have the ability to greatly mitigate the effects of eutrophication in seagrass systems. In this study we look at pinfish (Lagodon rhomboides Linnaeus) as a potential epiphytic grazer and assess feeding preferences during a transitional stage in the ontogenetic diet shift exhibited by these fish. Since pinfish are abundant in seagrass meadows in the northern Gulf of Mexico, their dietary preferences have the potential to greatly impact seagrasses in this system. Twenty-four hour feeding trials were conducted to determine pinfish preference between seagrass (Thalassia testudinum) and algal epiphytes. St. Joseph Bay, FL was also surveyed to determine areas within this ecosystem that could be highly impacted by pinfish abundance. Significant spatial patterns were found among pinfish, as well as urchins and invertebrates, suggesting that some areas might be experiencing stronger grazing pressures. Feeding trials support previous studies showing that pinfish consume little to no T. testudinum and spatial patterns within St. Joseph Bay support past research showing that S. filliforme is a preferred seagrass for pinfish. Data regarding epiphytes as a preferred food source were inconclusive, as variation was high among treatments; further study is required.
Included in
Integrative Biology Commons, Other Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Commons, Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons