Unknown

Dataset Information

0

The first global deep-sea stable isotope assessment reveals the unique trophic ecology of Vampire Squid Vampyroteuthis infernalis (Cephalopoda).


ABSTRACT: Vampyroteuthis infernalis Chun, 1903, is a widely distributed deepwater cephalopod with unique morphology and phylogenetic position. We assessed its habitat and trophic ecology on a global scale via stable isotope analyses of a unique collection of beaks from 104 specimens from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Cephalopods typically are active predators occupying a high trophic level (TL) and exhibit an ontogenetic increase in δ15N and TL. Our results, presenting the first global comparison for a deep-sea invertebrate, demonstrate that V. infernalis has an ontogenetic decrease in δ15N and TL, coupled with niche broadening. Juveniles are mobile zooplanktivores, while larger Vampyroteuthis are slow-swimming opportunistic consumers and ingest particulate organic matter. Vampyroteuthis infernalis occupies the same TL (3.0-4.3) over its global range and has a unique niche in deep-sea ecosystems. These traits have enabled the success and abundance of this relict species inhabiting the largest ecological realm on the planet.

SUBMITTER: Golikov AV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6910912 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

altmetric image

Publications

The first global deep-sea stable isotope assessment reveals the unique trophic ecology of Vampire Squid Vampyroteuthis infernalis (Cephalopoda).

Golikov Alexey V AV   Ceia Filipe R FR   Sabirov Rushan M RM   Ablett Jonathan D JD   Gleadall Ian G IG   Gudmundsson Gudmundur G   Hoving Hendrik J HJ   Judkins Heather H   Pálsson Jónbjörn J   Reid Amanda L AL   Rosas-Luis Rigoberto R   Shea Elizabeth K EK   Schwarz Richard R   Xavier José C JC  

Scientific reports 20191213 1


Vampyroteuthis infernalis Chun, 1903, is a widely distributed deepwater cephalopod with unique morphology and phylogenetic position. We assessed its habitat and trophic ecology on a global scale via stable isotope analyses of a unique collection of beaks from 104 specimens from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Cephalopods typically are active predators occupying a high trophic level (TL) and exhibit an ontogenetic increase in δ<sup>15</sup>N and TL. Our results, presenting the first glob  ...[more]

Similar Datasets

| S-EPMC11698404 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC2679927 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC6645532 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC10279766 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC3280240 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC4592864 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC6899600 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC4299230 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC3896428 | biostudies-literature
| S-EPMC5731754 | biostudies-literature