Consumption of Shrews, Sorex spp., by Arctic Grayling, Thymallus arcticus

Authors

  • Jonathan W. Moore Department of Biology, University of Washington, Box 351800, Seattle, Washington 98195
  • G. J. Kenagy Burke Museum and Department of Biology, University of Washington, Box 353010, Seattle, Washington 98195

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v118i1.891

Keywords:

Arctic Grayling, Thymallus arcticus, diet, salmon-derived nutrients, shrews, Sorex spp., stable isotopes

Abstract

In an investigation of the dietary habits of Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arcticus) we found that two individuals out of 93 sampled in southwestern Alaska (approximately 59°N, 159°W) contained a total of five shrews (Sorex spp.). These shrews contained enriched levels of nitrogen stable isotopes, suggesting utilization of nutrients derived from salmon. We hypothesize that normally terrestrial shrews accidentally enter streams while foraging along the productive riparian zones of creeks with high densities of salmon. Shrews are apparently susceptible to opportunistic predation by resident stream fishes, including Arctic Grayling, when they enter the streams.

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Issue

Vol. 118 No. 1 (2004)

Section

Articles

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