Which Tissues Provide the Best Results in Evaluating Striped Bass Diet Using Fatty Acid Signatures?

The process of fatty acid conservation from prey to predator has been well studied in aquatic systems. Predators incorporate prey fatty acids, often with little to no modification into their own tissues. This fact has been the basis for trophic studies in many different systems. However, there has been little research to determine which tissue/s in carnivorous fish offer the clearest picture of trophic dynamics. The goal of this study was to compare fatty acid incorporation between liver and adipose tissue in striped bass (Morone saxatilis). To accomplish this goal, striped bass were fed a baseline diet of bay anchovy (Anchoa mitchilli) for 4 weeks, followed by 6 weeks of being fed a diet consisting of spot (Leiostomus xanthurus). Striped bass were collected biweekly and analyzed to determine fatty acid signatures. Both bay anchovy and spot were also analyzed for fatty acid signatures.  The results of this study will provide guidance on what tissues best reflect dietary history in striped bass.