A multiple regression model for predicting the food consumption of marine fish populations

Abstract

The construction of trophic (food web) models of ecosystems, as needed for both theoretical and practical purposes such as fisheries management, requires estimates of food consumption (Q) by each of the various species (groups) included in the model. These estimates are usually required on a per-biomass (B) basis, i.e. as estimates of the ratio of the food consumed to the weight of the consumers (Q/B) during a stated period. For estimates of Q/B to be most useful, they must take account of: (i) seasonal fluctuations of food intake; (ii) the age/size structure of the population; and (iii) the type of food consumed. In this study, 33 estimates of Q/B are reviewed, and an empirical multiple regression model for prediction of Q/B is presented.