Role of streamside vegetation as a food source for Galaxias olidus Gnnther (Pisces : Galaxiidae)

Abstract

Dipteran and trichopteran larvae; coleopteran adults and terrestrial invertebrates were the main items in the diet of G. olidus taken in summer from 10 stations in the Seven Creeks River system, Victoria. Ephemeropteran nymphs, coleopteran larvae and copepods also formed a large part of the diet. Terrestrial organisms were taken more frequently by larger fish than by smaller fish and formed a substantial part of the diet of those fish taken from sites surrounded by overhanging vegetation. Terrestrial organisms were much less common in the diet of fish taken from sites with little overhanging vegetation.