Estimating Endogenous Nutrient Allocations To Reproduction in Redhead Ducks: A Dual Isotope Approach Using Delta D and Delta C-13 Measurements Of Female And Egg Tissues

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[edit] Author(s)

  • Hobson, K. A.
  • Atwell, L.
  • Wassenaar, L. I.
  • Yerkes, T.

[edit] Journal

Functional Ecology 18.5 (2004): 737-45.

[edit] Keywords

carbon-13 deuterium reproductive investment fatty-acid-composition lesser snow geese clutch size stable-isotopes animal-tissues food-habits hydrogen turnover diet fractionation

[edit] Abstract

1. Clutch formation represents a considerable energy expense for waterfowl, yet little evidence is available to quantify nutrient allocation from endogenous and exogenous sources. Here we investigated hydrogen and carbon stable isotope ratios (deltaD and delta(13)C) in female Redhead Ducks (Aythya americana) and their eggs to evaluate the use of deltaD as an indicator of nutrient sources to reproduction.

2. Females arrived with mean muscle tissue deltaD and delta(13)C values more positive than those of the local food web, reflecting marine dietary inputs from the wintering grounds. These values changed to the range of local food values by late incubation. delta(13)C values from albumen and yolk protein were correlated, supporting the presence of a common exogenous carbon source for these egg components.

3. There was no significant correlation between deltaD or delta(13)C values in egg tissues and abdominal fat or muscle from the corresponding laying female. No general population-level trends in isotope values from sequentially developing follicle yolks were found.

4. Redhead females relied mainly on dietary lipids and proteins for egg production, and therefore endogenous reserves were used to satisfy female body maintenance and energy requirements.

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