Stable Isotopes in Aquatic Systems: Sample Preparation, Analysis, and Interpretation

.......................................................................................................................v RÉSUMÉ............................................................................................................................v INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................1 Stable isotope chemistry.............................................................................................1 International isotopic standards..................................................................................1 Sample calculation......................................................................................................2 Isotope literature.........................................................................................................2 SAMPLE PRESERVATION AND PREPARATION........................................................3 Preservation methods..................................................................................................3 Submitting samples for analysis.................................................................................3 Additional techniques.................................................................................................4 INTERPRETATION OF STABLE ISOTOPE DATA........................................................5 Fractionation............................................................................................................5 Animal SI ratios relative to diet...............................................................................5 Mechanisms responsible for fractionation...............................................................6 Equilibration with a diet in lab and field: Growth vs. turnover...............................6 FOOD WEBS......................................................................................................................7 Primary productivity................................................................................................8 APPLICATIONS.................................................................................................................9 Contaminants...........................................................................................................9 Migratory patterns...................................................................................................9 Mixing models.......................................................................................................10 Nutrient input.........................................................................................................12 Diet shifts...............................................................................................................12 Otoliths...................................................................................................................13 Large-bodied species.............................................................................................13