Gut content data from reef fishes sampled at natural reefs sites in the northern Gulf of Mexico from November 2010 – August 2011

Reef fish were sampled at natural reef sites in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Stomachs were removed from fish and fixed in 10% formalin for at least 48 hours, then was transferred to 70% isopropyl alcohol for preservation. Diet composition analysis was performed by identifying stomach contents to the lowest taxonomic level possible and enumerating them with the aid of a dissecting microscope. Samples were sorted by prey type and a wet mass was obtained for each prey type. The samples were then placed in an oven to dry for 48 hours at 60°C, after which dry mass (g) was obtained.