SOCIAL HIERARCHY, SHELTER USE, AND AVOIDANCE OF PREDATORY TOADFISH (OPSANUS-TAU) BY THE STRIPED BLENNY (CHASMODES-BOSQUIANUS)

This paper describes a three-part examination of the predatory relationship between oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau) and striped blennies (Chasmodes bosquianus). In the first laboratory study, blennies avoided the toadfish when placed in a choice situation. During the second laboratory study, dominant blennies escaped attack significantly more than did subordinates by using a protective shelter. A field study demonstrated that toadfish will attack active but tethered blennies under natural conditions. As predators, toadfish appear to use a mixed strategy. During the day, when they are relatively inactive, they may feed as ambush predators. However, we suggest that at night they move about actively, stalking benthic invertebrates and small fishes. They also feed as scavengers, consuming a variety of foods. © 1979.