Feeding habits of skipjack tuna, Katsuwonus pelamis associated with flotsam in Minicoy, Lakshadweep

摘要

Feeding habits of skipjack tuna associated with flotsam and those from free schools were studied based on data collected from the pole and line fishery from Minicoy during 1999-2001. The flotsam were found in different months but was more frequent during Sept. to Nov. A preponderance of smaller siz-e groups below 40 cm (48%) was seen around flotsam whereas in free schools size groups above 50 cm (65%) dominated. Stomach contents of 828 individuals were analysed. In flotsam associated skipjack, stomachs were found to be either empty or with natural prey. Caridian shrimps were found to be the main food in all size groups/and were actively fed. The average ration per 1000 g body weight ranged between 17.3 and 39.4 ml suggesting that the flotsam have a function related to feeding rather than refuge.