Search

A review of scientific literature published by workers from the Eurasian mainland, suggested that introductions of zander could lead to changes in the native fish fauna. However, such changes frequently coincide with changes in the habitat which may themselves have been partly responsible for the developments noted. It is suggested that a controlled study of the zander might enable a precise determination of the zander's ecological impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of the feeding of the zander (Stizostedion lucioperca L.) required a method of reconstructing digested prey lengths. A linear relationship between pharyngeal bone dimensions and prey fork lengths of roach (Rutilis rutilis L.) and common bream (Abramis brama L.) were determined. For unidentified prey and fish species lacking pharyngeal bones, a scale based on the percentage change in length with stage of digestion was employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food webs are typically defined as being macro-organism-based (e.g., plants, mammals, birds) or microbial (e.g., bacteria, fungi, viruses). However, these characterizations have limits. We propose a multilayered food web conceptual model where microbial food webs are nested within food webs composed of macro-organisms. Nesting occurs through host-microbe interactions, which influence the health and behavior of host macro-organisms, such that host microbiomes likely alter population dynamics of interacting macro-organisms and vice versa. Here, we explore the theoretical underpinnings of multilayered food webs and the implications of this new conceptual model on food web ecology. Our framework opens avenues for new empirical investigations into complex ecological networks and provides a new lens through which to view a network's response to ecosystem changes., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests The authors have no interests to declare., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)