The food of rig ( <i>Mustelus lenticulatus</i> ) and the relationship of feeding to reproduction and condition in Golden Bay

Abstract

Abstract The feeding of rig (Mustelus lenticulatus) from Golden Bay, north‐western Nelson was investigated in relation to condition, reproduction, and migration patterns. Prey importance was assessed by an index of relative importance (IRI). Prey composition was further examined by cluster analysis. Feeding intensity was assessed by weight of stomach contents as a percentage of body weight, and by mean number of prey consumed. Rig fed predominantly on benthic invertebrates (pagurid and brachyuran crustaceans, and echiurans). Inshore migration of females in summer did not appear to be related to feeding in order to gain condition for reproduction. It is suggested that males move inshore to mate. Golden Bay could act as a nursery ground for juvenile rig, providing food and protection from predation.