Spatiotemporal distribution and feeding ecology of the brown croaker (Miichthys miiuy) in the southwestern sea of Korea

This study investigated the spatiotemporal distribution, feeding ecology, and trophic dynamics of the marine fish species brown croaker (Miichthys miiuy) in the southwestern sea of Korea. As a top predator, M. miiuy primarily consumes small fish, especially anchovies and Larimichthys polyactis, with peak catch rates occurring in autumn. Stomach content analysis confirmed that fish dominate its diet across all size groups. However, notable dietary shifts were observed during the spawning season (July to October), when caridean shrimp, cephalopods, and penaeid shrimp became more prominent, likely because of shifts in prey availability and increased reproductive energy demands. Ontogenetic changes were also apparent, with larger individuals selecting larger prey. The species’ opportunistic feeding behavior, adjusting to seasonal and environmental variations, underscores its ecological adaptability. These findings highlight M. miiuy’s significant role in controlling the abundance of lower trophic species and stress the importance of further research on its trophic interactions to support marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries management.