Observations of feeding behaviour of quillback rockfish around spot prawn traps using an underwater camera

Abstract

Direct observation of animal behaviour is common in terrestrial biology, but requires the use of technology to be conducted in the ocean. In this study, we present opportunistic in-situ observations of quillback rockfish (Sebastes maliger) attempting to feed on spot prawns (Pandalus platyceros) near pots deployed at depths of ~100 m. In these specific circumstances, quillback rockfish had poor foraging success, and we hypothesize that low light levels may have hampered their ability to assess prey size and position. We conclude with a call for more targeted behavioural research at depths greater than those accessible to scuba divers. KEYWORDS Foraging; Underwater