The use of stable isotopes for food web analysis

General aspects in isotope biogeochemistry was summarized with emphasis on delta 15N and delta 13C contents in plants and animals in natural ecosystems. In the estuary, the variation of isotope ratios were principally governed by the mixing of land-derived organic matter, marine phytoplankton, and seagrasses. A clear cut linear relationship between animal delta 15N and its trophic level was obtained in the Antarctic food chain system. Several current efforts to use the stable isotopes for food web analysis were demonstrated for some terrestrial and marine systems as well as human food web.