Auto-ecological traits of bryconops giacopinii (Iguanodectidae) from la serranía de la Lindosa, san jos� de Guaviare, Colombia

Abstract

Length-weight relationship and condition factor (K) have been used as a fish biological descriptor, because they provide information about growth, reproduction, and welfare. Therefore, these parameters can be used in the assessments of fish populations inhabiting aquatic systems affected by different levels of intervention. The main objective of this study was the depiction and description of the length-weight relationship, condition factor and diet of Bryconops giacopinii in six sites at Serranía La Lindosa over one annual cycle (dry and wet seasons). Fish (n = 333) were measured, weighted, and the stomach was removed to identify prey items. Fish displayed a positive allometric growth during both seasons, without differences in the condition factor during the seasonal change.On the other hand, 17 prey items were identified; most of them terrestrial arthropods. The frequency and occurrence of these items did not follow a temporal or spatial pattern. B. giacopinii displayed a generalist diet, with a high consumption rate of terrestrial insects. The obtained results show the strong relationships between this species and the riparian forest, proving the importance of this biological corridors to the maintenance of the aquatic community and its conservation. This information contributes to the biological knowledge of this species out commercial interest and can be used to compare other populations in other basis. B. giacopinii is a species with an important ecological role. Therefore, research of its relationship with the ecosystem could be of great relevance and necessity.