Intraspecific variation in diel patterns of rocky reef use suggests temporal partitioning in Port Jackson sharks

Limited information exists about the temporal residency patterns of marine predators, especially at individual level. Temporal partitioning resources can reduce intra-specific competition, but this has seldom been examined in predators ecosystems. Here, we used 8 years acoustic telemetry data from 27 receivers deployed a large coastal embayment to examine 51 Port Jackson sharks (Heterodontus portusjacksoni), during their breeding season. We found that lengths male and female on reefs differed throughout season, with males showing longer start season females end also showed 24-h or diel periodicity detection patterns. Although majority individuals were nocturnal, small proportion was detected more frequently day, possibly competition for resources. Surprisingly, there no difference sex ratio nor size diurnal nocturnal individuals. This study provides long-term insight into mesopredatory site and, broadly, our results highlight importance studying variation level movement ecology studies.