Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology Reports Findings in Movement Ecology (Migratory-derived resources induce elongated food chains through middle-up food web effects).

New research from the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology explores the impact of migration on food webs in riverine ecosystems. The study focuses on Arctic charr populations and compares streams with resident populations to those with partially migratory populations. The researchers find that migration-derived resources can lead to longer food chains through middle-up effects, as well as altered energy pathways. The presence of migratory individuals feeding on juvenile conspecifics may also reduce competition with resident individuals. This study provides valuable insights into the consequences of seasonal animal movements on local food webs. [Extracted from the article]