Differences in delta13C and delta15N stable isotopes in the pearly razorfish Xyrichtys novacula related to the sex, location and spawning period.

ABSTRACT

In the present study, Xyrichtys novacula (Labridae) were sampled at five locations around the islands of Ibiza and Formentera (western Mediterranean Sea). Isotopic signatures of delta13C, delta15N and the CN ratio were analysed in relation to locality, sex and size differences. delta13C and delta15N partitioning was also studied in the reproductive spawning period. There were significant differences in the delta13C signature between localities for both sexes, but not for delta15N. Sex differences were also found with a mean +/-s.e. value of -17.38 +/- 0.06 per thousand delta13C and 8.36 +/- 0.05 per thousand delta(15)N for females and -17.17 +/- 0.07 per thousand delta13C and 8.80 +/- 0.06 per thousand delta15N for males. Increasing total length in both sexes was positively correlated with delta15N enrichment and a significant positive linear regression was established for both variables. During the reproductive spawning period, there were changes in delta13C fractioning with enrichment in postspawning females and males (with respect to prespawning and spawning periods) and delta(15)N impoverishment in postspawning females (with respect to prespawning and spawning periods). Xyrichtys novacula uses local food sources, as confirmed by delta(13)C and delta(15)N, and females and males use different food sources, thus avoiding intraspecific competition. This was confirmed by delta15N enrichment as size increased. Spawning leads to special requirements for gonad maturation, which is reflected in the isotopic signatures for both sexes.