Food characterization of the spotted pimelodid fish Pimelodus maculatus from a polluted urban river in Argentina

Abstract

On the present study, the nourishment and the digestive system of a population of the spotted pimelodid Pimelodus maculatus Lacepède 1803 from a polluted urban river in Argentina were analyzed (Reconquista River, Buenos Aires province). The specimens are characterized by having benthic habits and an omnivore diet. In their intestinal content, a diversity of components was identified. Such components were grouped into ten alimentary items, with dietary variations according to body size while the longitude of the intestine remained proportional to standard length. Microbiological analysis in the gills, stomach and intestine showed the occurrence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. Fungi and yeast were also detected. Bacterial accounts were very high both in the analyzed organs as well in water samples. The ecological and sanitary significance of the identified bacteria is discussed.

Diet and trophic niche of common carp Cyprinus carpio in the Lower Santa Lucía River, Uruguay.

“…Cyprinus carpio and the native species such as the catfish Iheringichthys labrosus, the boga Megaleporinus obtusidens, and the yellow catfish Pimelodus maculatus are species with similar feeding behaviors based on the consumption of benthic macroinvertebrates and detritus (Kuczynski et al 2015, López-Rodríguez et al 2019, González-Bergonzoni et al 2020. In this sense, niche overlap between the native species and the common carp should be taken in consideration in further research to have a more complete picture of the effects of this invasive species over local freshwater communities and ecosystems.…”