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Published on: October 5, 2017
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[Investigating jellyfish diet with DNA macrobarcoding: A case study in Rhopilema esculentum]
Bai-Ling Chen1, Yu-Long Li1, Xiang-Bo Bao1
1Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute/Key Laboratory of Protection and Utilization of Aquatic Germplasm Resource, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs/Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Marine Fishery, Dalian 116023, Liaoning, China.
Ying Yong Sheng Tai Xue Bao = the Journal of Applied Ecology
|December 27, 2024
Summary
DNA metabarcoding revealed the diet of jellyfish Rhilema esculentum in Liaodong Bay, showing a preference for small and medium zooplankton like mollusks and arthropods.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Ecology
- Molecular biology
Context:
- Jellyfish aquaculture is expanding globally.
- Understanding jellyfish feeding ecology is crucial for managing aquaculture and marine ecosystems.
- Coastal aquaculture ponds in Liaodong Bay are important habitats for jellyfish.
Purpose:
- To investigate the food composition and feeding selectivity of jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum).
- To apply DNA metabarcoding technology for analyzing jellyfish diet.
- To identify preferred prey items of R. esculentum.
Summary:
- DNA metabarcoding using 18S rDNA and COI markers analyzed jellyfish stomach contents and environmental DNA.
- Mollusks and arthropods were identified as dominant prey phyla in R. esculentum diets.
- The Ivlev selection index indicated a preference for small- and medium-sized zooplankton.
Impact:
- DNA metabarcoding is a powerful tool for studying jellyfish feeding habits.
- Findings contribute to understanding jellyfish ecological roles in aquaculture environments.
- Provides insights for sustainable jellyfish aquaculture and ecosystem management.
