An update on the feeding habits of fish in the Mediterranean Sea (2002-2015)

Abstract

In this study we updated a previous compilation of the feeding habits and trophic levels (TROPHs) of Mediterranean fish. In total, 178 publications were retrieved and analysed. Collected data refer to 148 species, with a TROPH value ranging from 2.00 to 4.54. The analysis of the TROPH distribution verified the previously proposed classification of species into functional trophic groups. Overall, information on diet composition exists for 204 fish species out of >700 fishes from the Mediterranean, suggesting that feeding habits are understudied despite their importance in ecological applications and fisheries management. More than half (60.3%) of these species are classified as omnivores with a preference for animal material, 36.7% are carnivores, 2.0% are omnivores with a preference for plants, and two (i.e. Siganus luridus and S. rivulatus) are pure herbivores. Finally, recommendations for future research are given in view of filling information gaps.