The study looked at the types of animals living in Gulf of Mexico estuaries and how they eat. They found that most of the animals eat dead plants and animals, with three main groups doing this. These detritivores make up a big part of the animal population in the estuaries. Some animals also eat other animals, but not as many. This shows that in Gulf of Mexico estuaries, most animals help break down dead stuff, which is important for the ecosystem.