Environment-dependent prey capture in the Atlantic mudskipper (Periophthalmus barbarus).

ABSTRACT: Few vertebrates capture prey in both the aquatic and the terrestrial environment due to the conflicting biophysical demands of feeding in water versus air. The Atlantic mudskipper (Periophthalmus barbarus) is known to be proficient at feeding in the terrestrial environment and feeds predominately in this environment. Given the considerable forward flow of water observed during the mouth-opening phase to assist with feeding on land, the mudskipper must alter the function of its feeding system to feed successfully in water. Here, we quantify the aquatic prey-capture kinematics of the mudskipper and compare this with the previously described pattern of terrestrial feeding. Prior to feeding in the aquatic environment, the gill slits open, allowing water to be expelled through the gill slits. T

SUBMITTER: Michel KB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5155533 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature