
%0 Journal Article
%A Klumpp, DW 
%A Nichols, PD 
%T A study of food chains in seagrass communities II. Food of the rock flathead, <I>Platycephalus laevigatus</I> Cuvier, a major predator in a <I>Posidonia australis</I> seagrass bed
%J Marine and Freshwater Research
%D 1983/10/01
%V 34
%N 5
%P 745-754
%K 
%R https://doi.org/10.1071/MF9830745
%U https://www.publish.csiro.au/paper/MF9830745 
%X Feeding habits of P. laevigatus were investigated between February 1980 and November 1981 as part of a larger study on the structure of food chains supporting commercial fishes in the seagrass beds of Corner Inlet, south-eastern Australia. The main food components were crabs, predominantly Nectocarcinus integrifons, and juvenile fishes. Most dietary items were inhabitants of the seagrass zone. Small (25-33 cm) rock flathead showed a preference for fish, squid and shrimp whereas larger (> 33 cm) individuals consumed mainly N. integrifons together with some fish. Seasonal variations in diet and feeding intensity occurred. A decrease in feeding intensity in winter was accompanied by a shift in diet from N. integrifons to fish and squid. A second decline in feeding intensity corresponded to the apparent spawning period. The rock flathead and its main prey, N. integrifons, both showed a rhythm in locomotory activity correlated with nocturnal or crepuscular high tides whereas small fish prey were mostly active during daylight. 
