Unveiling the trophic dynamics and ecological roles of demersal fish in Hong Kong: A metabarcoding and isotope analysis approach.

ABSTRACT: This study provides a comprehensive examination of the trophic ecology and feeding dynamics of 16 demersal fish species inhabiting the southern and southwestern waters of Hong Kong, utilizing advanced 12S and COI gut content metabarcoding alongside stable isotope analysis. Dietary dissimilarities, primarily driven by Decapoda and fish, are significant among species. Network plots further highlight unique predator-prey interactions. Eight species, including horn dragonet Callionymus curvicornis and Japanese butterflyray Gymnura japonica, are identified as piscivores, primarily preying on demersal fish, while six species such as rough flathead Grammoplites scaber and Japanese flathead Inegocia japonica are classified as crustacean feeders, focusing on Decapoda. Notably, spotted sicklefish Dr

SUBMITTER: Wong HC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12614624 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature