Flood pulse are the main determinant of feeding dynamics and composition of Odontostilbe pequira (Characiformes: Characidae) in southern Pantanal, Brazil/O pulso de inundação é o principal determinante da dinâmica e composição da dieta de Odontostilbe pequira (Characiformes, Characidae) no Pantanal Sul, Brasil

Aim: This study characterized the diet of Odontostilbe pequira in Porto Murtinho, Pantanal, Brazil, and evaluated the existence of spatial, temporal and ontogenetic variation in feeding. Methods: A total of 303 individuals were analyzed from February 2009 through January 2010, and the alimentary index was used to quantify feeding items importance. Results: Of the 88.7% of all stomachs analyzed that had contents, 78 prey items were identified, with a predominance of algae and microcrustaceans. Significant temporal and ontogenetic variation in diet dynamics and composition were detected. Of the prey items identified, 38.5% were associated with a specific sampling period. Conclusion: The food intake and composition are mainly determined by water levels followed by ontogeny of O. pequira in southern Pantanal.