Synopsis
Discussion concerning the fitting of different models to experimental data on food evacuation in fishes has largely revolved around two models, the exponential and the square root. In this review it is argued that, contrary to a previous review, the exponential model will in general give a better description of the rate of food evacuation than the square root model. It is also suggested that the rationale behind the square root model is questionable. In several laboratory studies (often when large meals were given), a lag phase in digestion was observed, a phenomenon which is not predicted by either model. In these cases other models could be applicable.
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Persson, L. Patterns of food evacuation in fishes: a critical review. Environ Biol Fish 16, 51–58 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00005159
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00005159