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Gafen HB, Garces-Torres RS, Liu CC, Lewin AC, Camacho-Luna P, MacLean RA, Carter RT. Ophthalmic findings and reference values for selected ocular parameters in whooping cranes (Grus americana) and Mississippi sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis pulla). Vet Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 39228086 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish baseline ophthalmic parameters for an endangered, semi-wild population of healthy whooping cranes (Grus americana) (WHCR) and Mississippi sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis pulla) (SACR). ANIMALS STUDIED Eighteen WHCR and 16 SACR. PROCEDURES Ophthalmic examination was performed by a single observer, followed by conjunctival swab collection for aerobic bacterial culture and measurement of tear production (phenol red thread test, PRTT) and corneal diameter (CD) as tolerated. Measurement of the axial globe (AG) length, anterior chamber (AC) depth, lens thickness, vitreous chamber (VC) depth, and pecten length was performed via ocular ultrasound (OUS) as tolerated. RESULTS Eyelid cicatrization (n = 1 WHCR), keratitis (n = 2 WHCR), incipient cataracts (n = 1 WHCR, n = 4 SACR), and uveal cysts (n = 1 SACR) were identified. Twenty-one bacterial species were cultured from SACR, while 18 bacterial species were cultured from WHCR. SACR under 6 months old had increased PRTT values compared to older SACR (p = .0432). AG length and VC depth of male WHCR were greater than in female WHCR (p = .0045 and p = .0008, respectively). WHCR less than 6 months old had greater AC depth and lens thickness than WHCR over 6 months (p < .001 and p = .0013, respectively). SACR less than 6 months old had greater AC depth and lens thickness than WHCR over 6 months (p < .0001 and p < .0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS WHCR and SACR are amenable to complete ophthalmic examination. Age-related differences in PRTT in SACR, sexual dimorphism in WHCR, and age-related differences in AC depth and lens thickness in WHCR and SACR were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B Gafen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Chin-Chi Liu
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Andrew C Lewin
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Pilar Camacho-Luna
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | | | - Renee T Carter
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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2
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Cox DTC, Gaston KJ. Cathemerality: a key temporal niche. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:329-347. [PMID: 37839797 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Given the marked variation in abiotic and biotic conditions between day and night, many species specialise their physical activity to being diurnal or nocturnal, and it was long thought that these strategies were commonly fairly fixed and invariant. The term 'cathemeral', was coined in 1987, when Tattersall noted activity in a Madagascan primate during the hours of both daylight and darkness. Initially thought to be rare, cathemerality is now known to be a quite widespread form of time partitioning amongst arthropods, fish, birds, and mammals. Herein we provide a synthesis of present understanding of cathemeral behaviour, arguing that it should routinely be included alongside diurnal and nocturnal strategies in schemes that distinguish and categorise species across taxa according to temporal niche. This synthesis is particularly timely because (i) the study of animal activity patterns is being revolutionised by new and improved technologies; (ii) it is becoming apparent that cathemerality covers a diverse range of obligate to facultative forms, each with their own common sets of functional traits, geographic ranges and evolutionary history; (iii) daytime and nighttime activity likely plays an important but currently neglected role in temporal niche partitioning and ecosystem functioning; and (iv) cathemerality may have an important role in the ability of species to adapt to human-mediated pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel T C Cox
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Kevin J Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
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3
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Boyda-Andrade S, Silva DN, Raposo AC, Estrela-Lima A, Oriá AP. Morphobiometry of the scleral ossicle rings in Chelonia mydas sea turtles. Vet Ophthalmol 2024; 27:17-29. [PMID: 36872572 DOI: 10.1111/vop.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Scleral ossicle rings of reptiles have endoskeletal functions that are not completely understood. Moreover, descriptive reports on the anatomy of those rings are scarce. We tried to make an anatomical description that could contribute to a better understanding of their functions. ANIMAL STUDIED AND PROCEDURES We quantified, histologically characterized and evaluated the morphobiometry of the scleral ossicles, and measured the aditus orbitae of 25 sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) heads. RESULTS The aditus orbitae represented about one-third of the total head length and the mean area of the internal opening of each ring was up to 8.37% of the aditus orbitae area. The mean internal diameter of the rings (6.32 mm) was characteristic of scotopic species and the most frequent number of ossicles per ring varied between 11 and 12. Two new classifications were proposed for the ossicle types: plus-Verzahnung (+V) and minus-Verzahnung (-V). The bone tissue revealed a lamellar arrangement typical of compact and resistant bones. CONCLUSION The obtained data may be used to support and expand the understanding of functions, animal activity patterns, distinctions between taxa and taphonomic interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stelamares Boyda-Andrade
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University from the West of Bahia, UFOB, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Danielle Nascimento Silva
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Raposo
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Estrela-Lima
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Arianne P Oriá
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechny, Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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4
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Cerio DG, Witmer LM. Orbital soft tissues, bones, and allometry: Implications for the size and position of crocodylian eyes. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:2537-2561. [PMID: 36508325 DOI: 10.1002/ar.25133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although the visual system of crocodylians has attracted interest regarding optical parameters and retinal anatomy, fundamental questions remain about the allometry of the eyeball and whether such scaling is the same across all crown groups of crocodylians. In addition, anatomy and identities of adnexal soft tissues that interact with the visual system are not well understood in many cases. We used contrast-enhancing iodine stain and high-resolution micro-computed tomography to assess the anatomy of orbital soft tissues, including extraocular muscles and glands, in crocodylians. We also used regression analysis to estimate the allometric relationship between the bony orbit and eyeball across Alligator mississippiensis and Crocodylus niloticus for the first time. Results revealed tight, negatively allometric relationships between the bony orbit and eyeball. Notably, the eyes of C. niloticus were larger for a given orbit size than the eyes of A. mississippiensis, although the slope of the relationship was no different between these two crown crocodylian groups. Among the findings from our anatomical study, new details were uncovered about the homologies of muscles of the abducens complex. In particular, M. rectus lateralis of crocodylians is revealed to have a more complex form than previously appreciated, being adhered to the tendon of the nictitating membrane, which may be apomorphic for Crocodylia. Our calculation of the orbit-eyeball allometric relationship and study of the adnexal soft tissues of the crocodylian visual system, in combination with previous work by other teams in other crown saurian clades, is a critical, formerly missing, piece in the Extant Phylogenetic Bracket for restoring the visual apparatus of extinct crocodyliforms and other archosauriform groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald Greene Cerio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
| | - Lawrence M Witmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, Ohio, USA
- Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Studies, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
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5
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Jaber JR, Fumero-Hernández M, Corbera JA, Morales I, Amador M, Ramírez Zarzosa G, Encinoso M. Cross-Sectional Anatomy and Computed Tomography of the Coelomic Cavity in Juvenile Atlantic Puffins (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2933. [PMID: 37760335 PMCID: PMC10525466 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In birds, unlike mammals, there is no complete separation between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Instead, they have the coelomic cavity where most main organs are found. Therefore, an adequate knowledge of the anatomy of the coelomic cavity is of great importance for veterinarians, biologists and the scientific community. This study aimed to evaluate the coelomic cavity anatomy in the Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) using anatomical sections and computed tomography images.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Raduan Jaber
- Department of Morphology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Marcos Fumero-Hernández
- Veterinary Clinical Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (J.A.C.); (I.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Juan Alberto Corbera
- Veterinary Clinical Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (J.A.C.); (I.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Inmaculada Morales
- Veterinary Clinical Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (J.A.C.); (I.M.); (M.E.)
| | - Manuel Amador
- Dirección Insular de Medio Ambiente, Consejeria de Área de Medio Ambiente, Clima, Energía y Conocimiento of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, 35002 Las Palmas, Spain;
| | - Gregorio Ramírez Zarzosa
- Department of Anatomy and Compared Pathological Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Campus de Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Mario Encinoso
- Veterinary Clinical Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Las Palmas, Spain; (J.A.C.); (I.M.); (M.E.)
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6
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Fumero-Hernández M, Encinoso M, Ramírez AS, Morales I, Suárez Pérez A, Jaber JR. A Cadaveric Study Using Computed Tomography for Measuring the Ocular Bulb and Scleral Skeleton of the Atlantic Puffin (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2418. [PMID: 37570227 PMCID: PMC10417006 DOI: 10.3390/ani13152418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Imaging diagnosis plays a fundamental role in avian medicine. However, there are few publications regarding its use in ophthalmology. Seabirds, in particular, present a peculiar ecology since their lives take place in very diverse environments: the aquatic, the terrestrial, and the aerial. This fact implies a series of adaptations at a visual level that are necessary for adequate interaction with the environment. Therefore, knowledge of eye particularities is of great importance for the scientific community since it allows us to deepen our understanding of the ocular anatomy and biology of these animals, which are increasingly present in veterinary and wildlife centers. In our study, we performed a morphometric analysis of the ocular bulb and its internal structures in the puffin (Fratercula arctica) using advanced imaging techniques such as CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Fumero-Hernández
- Veterinary Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain; (M.F.-H.); (I.M.)
| | - Mario Encinoso
- Veterinary Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain; (M.F.-H.); (I.M.)
| | - Ana Sofia Ramírez
- Department of Pathology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain; (A.S.R.); (A.S.P.)
| | - Inmaculada Morales
- Veterinary Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain; (M.F.-H.); (I.M.)
| | - Alejandro Suárez Pérez
- Department of Pathology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain; (A.S.R.); (A.S.P.)
| | - José Raduan Jaber
- Department of Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain
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Morphometric Study of the Eyeball of the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) Using Computed Tomography (CT). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061016. [PMID: 36978556 PMCID: PMC10044611 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The short bibliography referring to the anatomy and pathology of the eyeball of turtles poses a challenge for veterinarians and conservationists given the increasing presence of this type of turtle in veterinary and wildlife centres. Although they nest on land, these animals spend a large part of their lives in the ocean, which entails a series of eye adaptations such as well-developed nictitating membranes, palpebral scales, highly sensitive corneas, or sclerotic rings to protect the eye. In our study, we performed a morphometric analysis of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) eyeball and its internal structures using advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT). To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there have been no studies published that describe the CT intraocular measurements of presumed normal loggerhead turtle eyes.
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Chamberland L, Agnarsson I, Quayle IL, Ruddy T, Starrett J, Bond JE. Biogeography and eye size evolution of the ogre-faced spiders. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17769. [PMID: 36273015 PMCID: PMC9588044 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Net-casting spiders (Deinopidae) comprise a charismatic family with an enigmatic evolutionary history. There are 67 described species of deinopids, placed among three genera, Deinopis, Menneus, and Asianopis, that are distributed globally throughout the tropics and subtropics. Deinopis and Asianopis, the ogre-faced spiders, are best known for their giant light-capturing posterior median eyes (PME), whereas Menneus does not have enlarged PMEs. Molecular phylogenetic studies have revealed discordance between morphology and molecular data. We employed a character-rich ultra-conserved element (UCE) dataset and a taxon-rich cytochrome-oxidase I (COI) dataset to reconstruct a genus-level phylogeny of Deinopidae, aiming to investigate the group's historical biogeography, and examine PME size evolution. Although the phylogenetic results support the monophyly of Menneus and the single reduction of PME size in deinopids, these data also show that Deinopis is not monophyletic. Consequently, we formally transfer 24 Deinopis species to Asianopis; the transfers comprise all of the African, Australian, South Pacific, and a subset of Central American and Mexican species. Following the divergence of Eastern and Western deinopids in the Cretaceous, Deinopis/Asianopis dispersed from Africa, through Asia and into Australia with its biogeographic history reflecting separation of Western Gondwana as well as long-distance dispersal events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Chamberland
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Ingi Agnarsson
- grid.14013.370000 0004 0640 0021Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Sturlugata 7, 102 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Iris L. Quayle
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Tess Ruddy
- grid.267778.b0000 0001 2290 5183Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 USA
| | - James Starrett
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Jason E. Bond
- grid.27860.3b0000 0004 1936 9684Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
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Yamashita M, Tsuihiji T. The relationship between hard and soft tissue structures of the eye in extant lizards. J Morphol 2022; 283:1182-1199. [PMID: 35833614 PMCID: PMC9545706 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The sizes of the eye structures, such as the lens diameter and the axial length, are important factors for the visual performance and are considered to be related to the mode of life. Although the size of these soft structures cannot be directly observed in fossil taxa, such information may be obtained from measuring size and morphology of the bony scleral ossicle ring, which is present in the eyes of extant saurospids, excluding crocodiles and snakes, and is variously preserved in fossil taxa. However, there have been only a few studies investigating the relationships between the size, the scleral ossicle ring, and soft structures of the eye. We investigated such relationships among the eye structures in extant Squamata, to establish the basis for inferring the size of the soft structures in the eye in fossil squamates. Three‐dimensional morphological data on the eye and head region of 59 lizard species covering most major clades were collected using micro‐computed tomography scanners. Strong correlations were found between the internal and external diameters of the scleral ossicle ring and soft structures. The tight correlations found here will allow reliable estimations of the sizes of soft structures and inferences on the visual performance and mode of life in fossil squamates, based on the diameters of their preserved scleral ossicle rings. Furthermore, the comparison of the allometric relationships between structures in squamates eyes with those in avian eyes suggest the possibility that the similarities of these structures closely reflect the mechanism of accommodation. The sizes of the eye structures are important factors for the visual performance. Strong correlations were found between the scleral ossicle ring and soft structures in extant squamates eyes. These correlations will allow reliable estimations of soft structures and inferences on the visual performance and mode of life in fossil squamates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momo Yamashita
- Center for Collections, National Museum of Nature and Science, 4-1-1, Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0005, Japan.,Geological Survey of Japan, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 7, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8567, Japan
| | - Takanobu Tsuihiji
- Department of Geology and Paleontology, National Museum of Nature and Science, 4-1-1, Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0005, Japan.,Department of Earth and Planetary Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyoku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
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10
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von Baczko MB, Desojo JB, Gower DJ, Ridgely R, Bona P, Witmer LM. New digital braincase endocasts of two species of Desmatosuchus and neurocranial diversity within Aetosauria (Archosauria: Pseudosuchia). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2021; 305:2415-2434. [PMID: 34662509 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In the present contribution we revise, figure, and redescribe several isolated braincases of the iconic aetosaur Desmatosuchus from the Placerias Quarry locality, Chinle Formation, Arizona, United States. The detailed study of the isolated braincases from the UCMP collection allowed us to assign them at the species-level and recognize two species of Desmatosuchus for the Placerias Quarry: D. spurensis and D. smalli. The former can be distinguished from the latter by the presence of a transverse sulcus on the parietals, deep median pharyngeal recess on the basisphenoid, almost no gap between the basal tubera and the basipterygoid processes, and the exoccipitals meeting at the midline. The presence of D. smalli at the Placerias Quarry has not been previously reported. Based on the braincases UCMP 27408, 27410, 27407, three new brain endocasts were developed through CT scan images, reconstructing the most complete endocranial casts known for an aetosaur, including the encephalon, cranial nerves, inner ear, and endocranial vasculature. The cranial endocasts also exhibited some differences between both species of Desmatosuchus, with D. spurensis having a distinguishable dural expansion and markedly asymmetric anterior and posterior semicircular canals of the labyrinth. Additionally, the combination of osteological features and the endocranial casts allowed us to identify and discuss the presence of an ossified orbitosphenoid on the anteriormost region of the braincase among aetosaurs. Furthermore, we were able to reinterpret some of the observations made by previous authors on the endocast of the holotype of Desmatosuchus spurensis (UMMP VP 7476) and provide some insight into their neurosensory capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Belén von Baczko
- Sección Paleontología de Vertebrados, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Julia B Desojo
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,División Paleontología Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - David J Gower
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Ryan Ridgely
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
| | - Paula Bona
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.,División Paleontología Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Lawrence M Witmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio Center for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
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Baldotto SB, Somma AT, Lange RR, Machado M, Moore BA, Montiani-Ferreira F. The crested caracara (Caracara plancus) eye: Morphologic observations and results of selected diagnostic tests. Vet Ophthalmol 2021; 24:533-542. [PMID: 34554632 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide a descriptive investigation about relevant features of the crested caracara's eye (Caracara plancus) and bony orbit, as well as provide data for ophthalmic tests. METHODS Morphological observations and the following diagnostic tests were performed: Schirmer tear test (STT), conjunctival flora evaluation, corneal touch threshold (CTT), intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), B-mode ocular biometry, palpebral fissure length (PFL), and corneal diameter (CD) in 19 healthy birds, plus two macerated skulls. Not all birds were used for each test. RESULTS STT: 7.84 ± 3.05 mm/min; CTT: 2.46 ± 1.10 cm; IOP: 19.18 ± 3.07 mmHg; CCT: 0.31 ± 0.02 mm; PFL: 13.32 ± 1.06 mm; CD: 10.26 ± 2.43 mm; Axial globe length: 1.89 ± 0.06 cm; Anterior chamber depth: 0.27 ± 0.06 cm; Lens axial length: 4.55 ± 0.06 cm; Vitreous chamber depth: 1.2 ± 0.07 cm. The most frequent conjunctival bacterial isolates were Corynebacterium sp. (10/23.8%), Staphylococcus sp. (9/21.42%), Streptococcus sp. (7/16.6%), and E. coli (7/16.66%). The large lateral part of the palatine bone likely plays a role in the ventral protection of the globe against the impact of prey. Observed results are generally reflective of increased body mass compared to other Falconiformes, with values approaching those of similar sized Accipitriformes. CONCLUSIONS These data may help veterinarians recognize peculiar morphologic features and perform a more accurate diagnosis of eye diseases of this avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suelen Berger Baldotto
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - André Tavares Somma
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Rogério Ribas Lange
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Marcello Machado
- Department of Anatomy, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brasil
| | - Bret A Moore
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Fabiano Montiani-Ferreira
- Veterinary Medicine Department, Comparative Ophthalmology Laboratory, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
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12
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Duhamel A, Benoit J, Day M, Rubidge B, Fernandez V. Computed Tomography elucidates ontogeny within the basal therapsid clade Biarmosuchia. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11866. [PMID: 34527434 PMCID: PMC8403480 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Biarmosuchia is a clade of basal therapsids that includes forms possessing plesiomorphic ‘pelycosaurian’ cranial characters as well as the highly derived Burnetiamorpha which are characterised by cranial pachyostosis and a variety of cranial bosses. Potential ontogenetic variation in these structures has been suggested based on growth series of other therapsids with pachyostosed crania, which complicates burnetiamorph taxonomic distinction and thus it is essential to better understand cranial ontogeny of the Burnetiamorpha. Here, three new juvenile biarmosuchian skulls from the late Permian of South Africa are described using X-ray micro computed tomography (CT). We found that juvenile biarmosuchians are distinguished from adults by their relatively large orbits, open cranial sutures, and incomplete ossification of the braincase and bony labyrinth. Also, they manifest multiple centres of ossification within the parietal and preparietal bones. CT examination reveals that the holotype of Lemurosaurus pricei (BP/1/816), previously alleged to be a juvenile, shows no evidence of juvenility and is thus probably an adult. This suggests that the larger skull NMQR 1702, previously considered to be an adult L. pricei, may represent a new taxon. This study provides, for the first time, a list of characters by which to recognise juvenile biarmosuchians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliénor Duhamel
- ENS de Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5276, LGL-TPE, Université Claude Bernard (Lyon I), Lyon, France.,Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Julien Benoit
- Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michael Day
- Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Earth Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruce Rubidge
- Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vincent Fernandez
- Department of Earth Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom.,European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France
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13
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Endocranial Anatomy of the Giant Extinct Australian Mihirung Birds (Aves, Dromornithidae). DIVERSITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/d13030124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Dromornithids are an extinct group of large flightless birds from the Cenozoic of Australia. Their record extends from the Eocene to the late Pleistocene. Four genera and eight species are currently recognised, with diversity highest in the Miocene. Dromornithids were once considered ratites, but since the discovery of cranial elements, phylogenetic analyses have placed them near the base of the anseriforms or, most recently, resolved them as stem galliforms. In this study, we use morphometric methods to comprehensively describe dromornithid endocranial morphology for the first time, comparing Ilbandornis woodburnei and three species of Dromornis to one another and to four species of extant basal galloanseres. We reveal that major endocranial reconfiguration was associated with cranial foreshortening in a temporal series along the Dromornis lineage. Five key differences are evident between the brain morphology of Ilbandornis and Dromornis, relating to the medial wulst, the ventral eminence of the caudoventral telencephalon, and morphology of the metencephalon (cerebellum + pons). Additionally, dromornithid brains display distinctive dorsal (rostral position of the wulst), and ventral morphology (form of the maxillomandibular [V2+V3], glossopharyngeal [IX], and vagus [X] cranial nerves), supporting hypotheses that dromornithids are more closely related to basal galliforms than anseriforms. Functional interpretations suggest that dromornithids were specialised herbivores that likely possessed well-developed stereoscopic depth perception, were diurnal and targeted a soft browse trophic niche.
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14
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Seifert M, Baden T, Osorio D. The retinal basis of vision in chicken. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 106:106-115. [PMID: 32295724 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The Avian retina is far less known than that of mammals such as mouse and macaque, and detailed study is overdue. The chicken (Gallus gallus) has potential as a model, in part because research can build on developmental studies of the eye and nervous system. One can expect differences between bird and mammal retinas simply because whereas most mammals have three types of visual photoreceptor birds normally have six. Spectral pathways and colour vision are of particular interest, because filtering by oil droplets narrows cone spectral sensitivities and birds are probably tetrachromatic. The number of receptor inputs is reflected in the retinal circuitry. The chicken probably has four types of horizontal cell, there are at least 11 types of bipolar cell, often with bi- or tri-stratified axon terminals, and there is a high density of ganglion cells, which make complex connections in the inner plexiform layer. In addition, there is likely to be retinal specialisation, for example chicken photoreceptors and ganglion cells have separate peaks of cell density in the central and dorsal retina, which probably serve different types of behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Seifert
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, UK.
| | - T Baden
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, UK; Institute for Ophthalmic Research, University of Tuebingen, Germany
| | - D Osorio
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, UK
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15
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Natan E, Fitak RR, Werber Y, Vortman Y. Symbiotic magnetic sensing: raising evidence and beyond. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 375:20190595. [PMID: 32772668 PMCID: PMC7435164 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The identity of a magnetic sensor in animals remains enigmatic. Although the use of the geomagnetic field for orientation and navigation in animals across a broad taxonomic range has been well established over the past five decades, the identity of the magnetic-sensing organ and its structure and/or apparatus within such animals remains elusive-'a sense without a receptor'. Recently, we proposed that symbiotic magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) may serve as the underlying mechanism behind a magnetic sense in animals-'the symbiotic magnetic-sensing hypothesis'. Since we first presented this hypothesis, both criticism and support have been raised accordingly. Here we address the primary criticisms and discuss the plausibility of such a symbiosis, supported by preliminary findings demonstrating the ubiquity of MTB DNA in general, and specifically in animal samples. We also refer to new supporting findings, and discuss host adaptations that could be driven by such a symbiosis. Finally, we suggest the future research directions required to confirm or refute the possibility of symbiotic magnetic-sensing. This article is part of the theme issue 'The role of the microbiome in host evolution'.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Rodgers Fitak
- Department of Biology; Genomics and Bioinformatics Cluster, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA
| | - Yuval Werber
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel Hai Academic College, Upper Galilee, 1220800, Israel
| | - Yoni Vortman
- Department of Animal Sciences, Hula Research Center, Tel Hai Academic College, Upper Galilee, 1220800, Israel
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16
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Norman DB. Scelidosaurus harrisonii (Dinosauria: Ornithischia) from the Early Jurassic of Dorset, England: biology and phylogenetic relationships. Zool J Linn Soc 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaa061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
A layer of keratinous scutes encased the skull of Scelidosaurus. The neurocranium and the associated principal sensory systems of this dinosaur are described. The cranial musculature is reconstructed and a subsequent functional analysis suggests that jaw motion was orthal, allowing pulping of vegetation and some high-angle shearing between opposing teeth. Wishboning of the lower jaw was enabled by transverse displacement of the quadrates, and the long-axis mandibular torsion that occurred during the chewing cycle was permitted by flexibility at the dentary symphysis. Limb proportions and pectoral and pelvic musculature reconstructions suggest that Scelidosaurus was a facultative quadruped of ‘average’ locomotor ability. It retained some anatomical features indicative of a bipedal-cursorial ancestry. Hindlimb motion was oblique-to-parasagittal to accommodate the girth of the abdomen. Scelidosaurus used a combination of costal and abdominally driven aspiration. The hypothesis that respiration was an ‘evolutionary driver’ of opisthopuby in all dinosaurs is overly simplistic. A critical assessment of datasets used to analyse the systematics of ornithischians (and thyreophoran subclades) has led to a revised dataset that positions Scelidosaurus as a stem ankylosaur, rather than a stem thyreophoran. The value of phylogenetic definitions is reconsidered in the light of the new thyreophoran cladogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Norman
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Cambridge, UK
- Christ’s College, St. Andrew’s Street, Cambridge, UK
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17
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Iwaniuk AN, Keirnan AR, Janetzki H, Mardon K, Murphy S, Leseberg NP, Weisbecker V. The endocast of the Night Parrot (Pezoporus occidentalis) reveals insights into its sensory ecology and the evolution of nocturnality in birds. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9258. [PMID: 32518353 PMCID: PMC7283296 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65156-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Night Parrot (Pezoporus occidentalis) is a rare, nocturnal parrot species that has largely escaped scientific investigation due to its behaviour and habitat preferences. Recent field studies have revealed some insights into Night Parrot behaviour, but nothing is known of its sensory abilities. Here, we used μCT scans of an intact Night Parrot specimen to determine if its visual system shares similarities with other nocturnal species. The endocast of the Night Parrot revealed relatively small optic lobes and optic foramina, especially compared with closely related grass parakeets, but no apparent differences in orbit dimensions. Our data suggests that the Night Parrot likely has lower visual acuity than most other parrots, including its congener, the Eastern Ground Parrot (P. wallicus). We propose that the visual system of the Night Parrot might represent a compromise between the need to see under low light conditions and the visual acuity required to detect predators, forage, and fly. Based on the endocast and optic foramen measurements, the Night Parrot fits into a common pattern of decreased retinal input to the optic lobes in birds that should be explored more thoroughly in extant and extinct species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N Iwaniuk
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.
| | - Aubrey R Keirnan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Karine Mardon
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Stephen Murphy
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicholas P Leseberg
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Vera Weisbecker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia. .,College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO 2100, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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18
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Borges R, Fonseca J, Gomes C, Johnson WE, O'Brien SJ, Zhang G, Gilbert MTP, Jarvis ED, Antunes A. Avian Binocularity and Adaptation to Nocturnal Environments: Genomic Insights from a Highly Derived Visual Phenotype. Genome Biol Evol 2020; 11:2244-2255. [PMID: 31386143 PMCID: PMC6735850 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evz111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Typical avian eyes are phenotypically engineered for photopic vision (daylight). In contrast, the highly derived eyes of the barn owl (Tyto alba) are adapted for scotopic vision (dim light). The dramatic modifications distinguishing barn owl eyes from other birds include: 1) shifts in frontal orientation to improve binocularity, 2) rod-dominated retina, and 3) enlarged corneas and lenses. Some of these features parallel mammalian eye patterns, which are hypothesized to have initially evolved in nocturnal environments. Here, we used an integrative approach combining phylogenomics and functional phenotypes of 211 eye-development genes across 48 avian genomes representing most avian orders, including the stem lineage of the scotopic-adapted barn owl. Overall, we identified 25 eye-development genes that coevolved under intensified or relaxed selection in the retina, lens, cornea, and optic nerves of the barn owl. The agtpbp1 gene, which is associated with the survival of photoreceptor populations, was pseudogenized in the barn owl genome. Our results further revealed that barn owl retinal genes responsible for the maintenance, proliferation, and differentiation of photoreceptors experienced an evolutionary relaxation. Signatures of relaxed selection were also observed in the lens and cornea morphology-associated genes, suggesting that adaptive evolution in these structures was essentially structural. Four eye-development genes (ephb1, phactr4, prph2, and rs1) evolved in positive association with the orbit convergence in birds and under relaxed selection in the barn owl lineage, likely contributing to an increased reliance on binocular vision in the barn owl. Moreover, we found evidence of coevolutionary interactions among genes that are expressed in the retina, lens, and optic nerve, suggesting synergetic adaptive events. Our study disentangles the genomic changes governing the binocularity and low-light perception adaptations of barn owls to nocturnal environments while revealing the molecular mechanisms contributing to the shift from the typical avian photopic vision to the more-novel scotopic-adapted eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Borges
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Cidália Gomes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Warren E Johnson
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia.,Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit, Smithsonian Institution, Suitland, Maryland
| | - Stephen J O'Brien
- Theodosius Dobzhansky Center for Genome Bioinformatics, St. Petersburg State University, Russia.,Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography, Nova Southeastern University
| | - Guojie Zhang
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzen, Shenzhen, China.,State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - M Thomas P Gilbert
- Centre for GeoGenetics, Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erich D Jarvis
- Laboratory of Neurogenetics of Language, Rockefeller University.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland
| | - Agostinho Antunes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal
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19
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Wu Y, Wang H. Convergent evolution of bird-mammal shared characteristics for adapting to nocturnality. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20182185. [PMID: 30963837 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The diapsid lineage (birds) and synapsid lineage (mammals), share a suite of functionally similar characteristics (e.g. endothermy) that are considered to be a result of their convergent evolution, but the candidate selections leading to this convergent evolution are still under debate. Here, we used a newly developed molecular phyloecological approach to reconstruct the diel activity pattern of the common ancestors of living birds. Our results strongly suggest that they had adaptations to nocturnality during their early evolution, which is remarkably similar to that of ancestral mammals. Given their similar adaptation to nocturnality, we propose that the shared traits in birds and mammals may have partly evolved as a result of the convergent evolution of their early ancestors adapting to ecological factors (e.g. low ambient temperature) associated with nocturnality. Finally, a conceptually unifying ecological model on the evolution of endothermy in diverse organisms with an emphasis on low ambient temperature is proposed. We reason that endothermy may evolve as an adaptive strategy to enable organisms to effectively implement various life-cycle activities under relatively low-temperature environments. In particular, a habitat shift from high-temperature to relatively low-temperature environments is identified as a common factor underlying the evolution of endothermy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghua Wu
- 1 School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University , 5268 Renmin Street, Changchun 130024 , People's Republic of China.,2 Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University , 2555 Jingyue Street, Changchun 130117 , People's Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Wang
- 3 Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University , Stanford, CA 94305 , USA
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20
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Cerio DG, Witmer LM. Modeling visual fields using virtual ophthalmoscopy: Incorporating geometrical optics, morphometrics, and 3D visualization to validate an interdisciplinary technique. Vision Res 2020; 167:70-86. [PMID: 31972447 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Visual fields are of particular interest to comparative biologists studying the complex interplay between anatomy, physiology, ecology, and optics. Visual fields have been measured in nearly 100 bird species, and investigators have uncovered associations between quantitative aspects of visual fields and foraging behavior, skull dimensions, and even brain morphology. However, limiting factors including time, access to living subjects, and experimental constraints complicate study of the visual apparatus of rare, endangered, or extinct species. We introduce a modeling technique called virtual ophthalmoscopy (VO) for estimating visual fields of vertebrates. We compare this in-silico technique, which draws on geometrical optics, morphometrics of eyes, and 3D visualization, against experimental data from 12 bird species from behavioral literature. Known values of optical properties, including axial length, lens curvatures, and refractive index, are used to construct and test virtual, schematic eyes in ray-tracing software. Resulting visual fields are measured in 3D-visualization software. These measurements are compared qualitatively and quantitatively with visual fields from the literature. Schematic eyeballs and in-silico visual fields, after iterative improvements using anatomical information from cadaveric specimens, approximate experimental data to the extent of falling within the range of intraspecific variation, suggesting VO is a viable technique for modeling visual fields. Virtual ophthalmoscopy creates an opportunity to expand the sample of species for which visual fields can be quantified and allows new hypotheses regarding the evolution of visual systems to be tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald G Cerio
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States.
| | - Lawrence M Witmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States.
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21
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Beston SM, Dudycha JL, Post DM, Walsh MR. The evolution of eye size in response to increased fish predation in Daphnia. Evolution 2019; 73:792-802. [PMID: 30843603 DOI: 10.1111/evo.13717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Variation in eye size is ubiquitous across taxa. Increased eye size is correlated with improved vision and increased fitness via shifts in behavior. Tests of the drivers of eye size evolution have focused on macroevolutionary studies evaluating the importance of light availability. Predator-induced mortality has recently been identified as a potential driver of eye size variation. Here, we tested the influence of increased predation by the fish predator, the alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) on eye size evolution in waterfleas (Daphnia ambigua) from lakes in Connecticut. We quantified the relative eye size of Daphnia from lakes with and without alewife using wild-caught and third-generation laboratory reared specimens. This includes comparisons between lakes where alewife are present seasonally (anadromous) or permanently (landlocked). Wild-caught specimens did not differ in eye size across all lakes. However, third-generation lab reared Daphnia from lakes with alewife, irrespective of the form of alewife predation, exhibited significantly larger eyes than Daphnia from lakes without alewife. This genetically based increase in eye size may enhance the ability of Daphnia to detect predators. Alternatively, such shifts in eye size may be an indirect response to Daphnia aggregating at the bottom of lakes. To test these mechanisms, we collected Daphnia as a function of depth and found that eye size differed in Daphnia found at the surface versus the bottom of the water column between anadromous alewife and no alewife lakes. However, we found no evidence of Daphnia aggregating at the bottom of lakes. Such results indicate that the evolution of a larger eye may be explained by a connection between eyes and enhanced survival. We discuss the cause of the lack of concordance in eye size variation between our phenotypic and genetic specimens and the ultimate drivers of eye size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Beston
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 76019
| | - Jeffry L Dudycha
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, 29208
| | - David M Post
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, 06520
| | - Matthew R Walsh
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 76019
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22
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Bringmann A. Structure and function of the bird fovea. Anat Histol Embryol 2019; 48:177-200. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Bringmann
- Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Medical Faculty University of Leipzig Leipzig Germany
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23
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Koushafar Z, Mohammadpour A. Morphological study of the midbrain tectum in ostrich (Struthio camelus) embryo. BULGARIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.15547//bjvm.2064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study the morphological features of the optic tectum in ostrich embryo were studied macroscopically and microscopically. After gross anatomical study, fixed specimens of the optic lobes in 30th, 36th and 40th embryonic days were processed for paraffin sections. Sections were stained by Harris haematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Luxol Fast Blue/Cresyl Echt Violet and Malory PTAH dyes. The optic lobes had large volumes even on the 30th embryonic day and increased proportionally to age. The optic lobe consisted of two parts: gray matter (outer) and white matter (inner). The first external layer of the optic lobe e.g. molecular layer consisted of neural fibres, neuroglia and scarce small neurons. The most common appearance of the optic lobes was characterised by small to medium-sized neurons (rounded to pyramid-shaped with large and pale nucleus consistong of obvious nucleoli arranged in three layers whose thickness increased in the deeper one) supported by neuroglia. Larger size neurons and occasionally multipolar neurons were presented in the interior compared with these layers. The lateral mesencephalic nucleus was detectable in the optic lobe base even on 30th embryonic day and was composed of few multipolar neurons supported by neuroglia. The tectal ventricles were lined with simple cuboidal ciliated ependymal cells in the embryonic period. As embryonic age increased, the ratio of tectal ventricle volume to its thickness decreased. Special stainings showed that Nissl bodies and myelin fibres, also glial fibres were available from the 30th embryonic day and that their density, especially myelin fibres density, increased with age.
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24
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Franz-Odendaal TA. Skeletons of the Eye: An Evolutionary and Developmental Perspective. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 303:100-109. [PMID: 30548203 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The ocular skeleton, composed of the scleral cartilage and scleral ossicles, is present in many vertebrates. The morphology of the scleral cartilage and ossicles varies within different extant reptiles (including birds) and also varies dramatically from the morphology in extant teleosts. This incredible range of diverse morphologies is the result of millions of years of evolution. Both the position of these elements within the eye and the timing of development vary amongst different vertebrates. While the development of both the scleral cartilage and scleral ossicles is somewhat understood in reptiles and in teleosts, the functional advantage of these elements is still debated. Most reptiles have a multi-component scleral ossicle ring composed of a series of flat bone plates and a scleral cartilage cup lining the retina, some sharks have calcified cartilage plates, and some teleosts have two bones while most others only have a ring of scleral cartilage. The data presented shows that different vertebrates have adapted to similar selective pressures in different ways. However, the reason why sarcopterygians have a series of overlapping bones in the sclera remains unclear. A better understanding of the ocular skeletal diversity in Reptilia as well as a better understanding of the mechanisms of vision within different environments (i.e., air vs. water) and that used by secondarily aquatic organisms is needed. This review discusses the observed variation in morphology and development of the ocular skeleton in the context of evolution and highlights our knowledge gaps in these areas. Anat Rec, 2018. © 2018 American Association for Anatomy.
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25
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Smith SM, Angielczyk KD, Schmitz L, Wang SC. Do Bony Orbit Dimensions Predict Diel Activity Pattern in Sciurid Rodents? Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 301:1774-1787. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M. Smith
- Department of Biology and Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture University of Washington Seattle Washington
| | | | - Lars Schmitz
- W.M. Keck Science Department Claremont McKenna, Pfizer, and Scripps Colleges Claremont California
| | - Steve C. Wang
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics Swarthmore College Swarthmore Pennsylvania
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26
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Fernández-Juricic E, Brand J, Blackwell BF, Seamans TW, DeVault TL. Species With Greater Aerial Maneuverability Have Higher Frequency of Collisions With Aircraft: A Comparative Study. Front Ecol Evol 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2018.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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27
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Plochocki JH, Segev T, Grow W, Hall MI. Extraocular muscle architecture in hawks and owls. Vet Ophthalmol 2018; 21:595-600. [DOI: 10.1111/vop.12553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tamar Segev
- Department of Anatomy; Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine; Glendale AZ USA
| | - Wade Grow
- Department of Anatomy; Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine; Glendale AZ USA
| | - Margaret I. Hall
- Department of Anatomy; Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine; Glendale AZ USA
- College of Veterinary Medicine; Midwestern University; Glendale AZ USA
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Beston SM, Wostl E, Walsh MR. The evolution of vertebrate eye size across an environmental gradient: phenotype does not predict genotype in a Trinidadian killifish. Evolution 2017; 71:2037-2049. [PMID: 28574174 DOI: 10.1111/evo.13283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrates exhibit substantial variation in eye size. Eye size correlates positively with visual capacity and behaviors that enhance fitness, such as predator avoidance. This foreshadows a connection between predation and eye size evolution. Yet, the conditions that favor evolutionary shifts in eye size, besides the well-known role for light availability, are unclear. We tested the influence of predation on the evolution of eye size in Trinidadian killifish, Rivulus hartii. Rivulus are located across a series of communities where they coexist with visually oriented piscivores ("high predation" sites), and no predators ("Rivulus-only" sites). Wild-caught Rivulus from high predation sites generally exhibited a smaller relative eye size than communities that lack predators. Yet, such differences were inconsistent across rivers. Second-generation common garden reared fish revealed repeatable decreases in eye size in Rivulus from high predation sites. We performed additional experiments that tested the importance of light and resources on eye size evolution. Sites that differ in light or resource availability did not differ in eye size. Our results argue that differences in predator-induced mortality underlie genetically-based shifts in vertebrate eye size. We discuss the drivers of eye size evolution in light of the nonparallel trends between the phenotypic and common garden results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M Beston
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 76019
| | - Elijah Wostl
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 76019
| | - Matthew R Walsh
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 76019
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Park S, Kang S, Lim J, Park E, Nam T, Jeong S, Seo K. Ultrasound biomicroscopy and tonometry in ophthalmologically normal pigeon eyes. Vet Ophthalmol 2017; 20:468-471. [DOI: 10.1111/vop.12450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sangwan Park
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Seonmi Kang
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Jaegook Lim
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Eunjin Park
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Taekjin Nam
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Seowoo Jeong
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
| | - Kangmoon Seo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science; Seoul National University; 1 Gwanak-ro Gwanak-gu Seoul 08826 Korea
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Moore BA, Teixeira LBC, Sponsel WE, Dubielzig RR. The consequences of avian ocular trauma: histopathological evidence and implications of acute and chronic disease. Vet Ophthalmol 2017; 20:496-504. [PMID: 28070965 DOI: 10.1111/vop.12453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present a description and categorization of the histopathological lesions in avian ocular trauma. ANIMAL STUDIED Seventy-five birds diagnosed with ocular trauma at to the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin. PROCEDURES Histological slides were reviewed, and the type of trauma was classified by cause into either (i) blunt trauma or (ii) penetrating trauma and by duration into (i) acute or (ii) chronic. RESULTS Blunt trauma was the most common source of trauma, and the most frequent lesions were observed in the retina (91%), with 71% of retinas having a tear or detachment and 46% of retinas showing chronic degenerative changes. Damage to the iris/ciliary body was present in 77% of cases. Corneal (17%) and lens (31%) lesions were relatively low. Acute traumatic events had a higher prevalence of readily identifiable discrete retinal tears/detachments (64%). Nearly all cases of chronic trauma exhibited chronic retinal lesions (93.7%), as well as a greater percentage of cartilage/bone lesions (71.4%), irido/cyclodialysis (51.9%), lenticular lesions (72.7%), and corneal damage (83.3%). However, the incidence of iridocyclodialysis was roughly equivalent for acute and chronic blunt trauma. CONCLUSIONS Ocular trauma can lead to profound acute and chronic lesions within the eye. Here, we provide insight into understanding ocular damage caused by trauma, which may help future studies suggest new therapeutic options and provide insight regarding the releasability of avian wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bret A Moore
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, 915 W. State Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Leandro B C Teixeira
- Department of Veterinary Pathological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 3374 Veterinary Medicine Building, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - William E Sponsel
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA.,Vision Sciences, University of the Incarnate Word, 311 Camden Street, San Antonio, TX, 78215, USA
| | - Richard R Dubielzig
- Department of Veterinary Pathological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 3374 Veterinary Medicine Building, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI, 53706, USA
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Retinal transcriptome sequencing sheds light on the adaptation to nocturnal and diurnal lifestyles in raptors. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33578. [PMID: 27645106 PMCID: PMC5028738 DOI: 10.1038/srep33578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Owls (Strigiformes) represent a fascinating group of birds that are the ecological night-time counterparts to diurnal raptors (Accipitriformes). The nocturnality of owls, unusual within birds, has favored an exceptional visual system that is highly tuned for hunting at night, yet the molecular basis for this adaptation is lacking. Here, using a comparative evolutionary analysis of 120 vision genes obtained by retinal transcriptome sequencing, we found strong positive selection for low-light vision genes in owls, which contributes to their remarkable nocturnal vision. Not surprisingly, we detected gene loss of the violet/ultraviolet-sensitive opsin (SWS1) in all owls we studied, but two other color vision genes, the red-sensitive LWS and the blue-sensitive SWS2, were found to be under strong positive selection, which may be linked to the spectral tunings of these genes toward maximizing photon absorption in crepuscular conditions. We also detected the only other positively selected genes associated with motion detection in falcons and positively selected genes associated with bright-light vision and eye protection in other diurnal raptors (Accipitriformes). Our results suggest the adaptive evolution of vision genes reflect differentiated activity time and distinct hunting behaviors.
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Atkins JB, Franz-Odendaal TA. The sclerotic ring of squamates: an evo-devo-eco perspective. J Anat 2016; 229:503-13. [PMID: 27240556 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The sclerotic ring consists of several bones that form in the sclera of many reptiles. This element has not been well studied in squamates, a diverse order of reptiles with a rich fossil record but debated phylogeny. Squamates inhabit many environments, display a range of behaviours, and have evolved several different body plans. Most importantly, many species have secondarily lost their sclerotic rings. This research investigates the presence of sclerotic rings in squamates and traces the lineage of these bones across evolutionary time. We compiled a database on the presence/absence of the sclerotic ring in extinct and extant squamates and investigated the evolutionary history of the sclerotic ring and how its presence/absence and morphology is correlated with environment and behaviour within this clade. Of the 400 extant species examined (59 families, 214 genera), 69% have a sclerotic ring. Those species that do not are within Serpentes, Amphisbaenia, and Dibamidae. We find that three independent losses of the sclerotic ring in squamates are supported when considering both evolutionary and developmental evidence. We also show that squamate species that lack, or have a reduced, sclerotic ring, are fossorial and headfirst burrowers. Our dataset is the largest squamate dataset with measurements of sclerotic rings, and supports previous findings that size of the ring is related to both environment occupied and behaviour. Specifically, scotopic species tend to have both larger inner and outer sclerotic ring apertures, resulting in a narrower ring of bone than those found in photopic species. Non-fossorial species also have a larger sclerotic ring than fossorial species. This research expands our knowledge of these fascinating bones; with further phylogenetic analyses scleral ossicles could become an extremely useful character trait for inferring the behaviour of fossil squamates.
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Choiniere JN, Clark JM, Norell MA, Xu X. Cranial Osteology ofHaplocheirus sollersChoiniere et al., 2010 (Theropoda: Alvarezsauroidea). AMERICAN MUSEUM NOVITATES 2014. [DOI: 10.1206/3816.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Moritz GL, Melin AD, Tuh Yit Yu F, Bernard H, Ong PS, Dominy NJ. Niche convergence suggests functionality of the nocturnal fovea. Front Integr Neurosci 2014; 8:61. [PMID: 25120441 PMCID: PMC4110675 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2014.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The fovea is a declivity of the retinal surface associated with maximum visual acuity. Foveae are widespread across vertebrates, but among mammals they are restricted to haplorhine primates (tarsiers, monkeys, apes, and humans), which are primarily diurnal. Thus primates have long contributed to the view that foveae are functional adaptations to diurnality. The foveae of tarsiers, which are nocturnal, are widely interpreted as vestigial traits and therefore evidence of a diurnal ancestry. This enduring premise is central to adaptive hypotheses on the origins of anthropoid primates; however, the question of whether tarsier foveae are functionless anachronisms or nocturnal adaptations remains open. To explore this question, we compared the diets of tarsiers (Tarsius) and scops owls (Otus), taxa united by numerous anatomical homoplasies, including foveate vision. A functional interpretation of these homoplasies predicts dietary convergence. We tested this prediction by analyzing stable isotope ratios that integrate dietary information. In Borneo and the Philippines, the stable carbon isotope compositions of Tarsius and Otus were indistinguishable, whereas the stable nitrogen isotope composition of Otus was marginally higher than that of Tarsius. Our results indicate that species in both genera consumed mainly ground-dwelling prey. Taken together, our findings support a functional interpretation of the many homoplasies shared by tarsiers and scops owls, including a retinal fovea. We suggest that the fovea might function similarly in tarsiers and scops owls by calibrating the auditory localization pathway. The integration of auditory localization and visual fixation during prey detection and acquisition might be critical at low light levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian L. Moritz
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Class of 1978 Life Sciences Center, Dartmouth CollegeHanover, NH, USA
| | - Amanda D. Melin
- Department of Anthropology, Washington University, St. LouisMO, USA
| | - Fred Tuh Yit Yu
- Research and Education Division, Zoology and EntomologyKota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Henry Bernard
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia SabahKota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Perry S. Ong
- Institute of Biology, University of the Philippines DilimanQuezon City, Philippines
| | - Nathaniel J. Dominy
- Department of Biological Sciences, The Class of 1978 Life Sciences Center, Dartmouth CollegeHanover, NH, USA
- Department of Anthropology, Dartmouth CollegeHanover, NH, USA
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Kawabe S, Shimokawa T, Miki H, Matsuda S, Endo H. Variation in avian brain shape: relationship with size and orbital shape. J Anat 2013; 223:495-508. [PMID: 24020351 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
There is wide variation in brain shape among birds. Differences in brain dimensions reflect species-specific sensory capacities and behavioral repertoires that are shaped by environmental and biological factors during evolution. Most previous studies aimed at defining factors impacting brain shape have used volumetric or linear measurements. However, few have explored the quantitative indices of three-dimensional (3D) brain geometry that are absolutely imperative to understanding avian evolutionary history. This study aimed: (i) to explore the relationship between brain shape and overall brain size; and (ii) to assess the relationship between brain shape and orbital shape. Avian brain endocasts were reconstructed from computed tomography images and analyzed using 3D geometric morphometrics. Principal component analysis revealed dominant regional variations in avian brain shape and shape correlations between the telencephalon and cerebellum, between the cerebellum and myelencephalon, and between the diencephalon and optic tectum. Brain shape changes relative to total brain size were determined by multivariate regression analysis. Larger brain size was associated with a relatively slender telencephalon and differences in brain orientation. The correlation between brain shape and orbital shape was assessed by two-block partial least-squares analysis. Relatively round brains with a ventrally flexed brain base were associated with rounder orbits, while narrower brains with a flat brain base were associated with more elongated orbits. The shapes of functionally associated avian brain regions are correlated, and orbital size and shape are dominant factors influencing the overall shape of the avian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soichiro Kawabe
- The University Museum, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; Gifu Prefectural Museum, Gifu, Japan
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Hall MI, Kirk EC, Kamilar JM, Carrano MT. Comment on "Nocturnality in dinosaurs inferred from scleral ring and orbit morphology". Science 2012. [PMID: 22194558 DOI: 10.1126/science.1208442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Schmitz and Motani (Reports, 6 May 2011, p. 705) claimed to definitively reconstruct activity patterns of Mesozoic archosaurs using the anatomy of the orbit and scleral ring. However, we find serious flaws in the data, methods, and interpretations of this study. Accordingly, it is not yet possible to reconstruct the activity patterns of most fossil archosaurs with a high degree of confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret I Hall
- Department of Physiology, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
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Corfield JR, Gsell AC, Brunton D, Heesy CP, Hall MI, Acosta ML, Iwaniuk AN. Anatomical specializations for nocturnality in a critically endangered parrot, the Kakapo (Strigops habroptilus). PLoS One 2011; 6:e22945. [PMID: 21860663 PMCID: PMC3157909 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 07/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The shift from a diurnal to nocturnal lifestyle in vertebrates is generally associated with either enhanced visual sensitivity or a decreased reliance on vision. Within birds, most studies have focused on differences in the visual system across all birds with respect to nocturnality-diurnality. The critically endangered Kakapo (Strigops habroptilus), a parrot endemic to New Zealand, is an example of a species that has evolved a nocturnal lifestyle in an otherwise diurnal lineage, but nothing is known about its' visual system. Here, we provide a detailed morphological analysis of the orbits, brain, eye, and retina of the Kakapo and comparisons with other birds. Morphometric analyses revealed that the Kakapo's orbits are significantly more convergent than other parrots, suggesting an increased binocular overlap in the visual field. The Kakapo exhibits an eye shape that is consistent with other nocturnal birds, including owls and nightjars, but is also within the range of the diurnal parrots. With respect to the brain, the Kakapo has a significantly smaller optic nerve and tectofugal visual pathway. Specifically, the optic tectum, nucleus rotundus and entopallium were significantly reduced in relative size compared to other parrots. There was no apparent reduction to the thalamofugal visual pathway. Finally, the retinal morphology of the Kakapo is similar to that of both diurnal and nocturnal birds, suggesting a retina that is specialised for a crepuscular niche. Overall, this suggests that the Kakapo has enhanced light sensitivity, poor visual acuity and a larger binocular field than other parrots. We conclude that the Kakapo possesses a visual system unlike that of either strictly nocturnal or diurnal birds and therefore does not adhere to the traditional view of the evolution of nocturnality in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy R Corfield
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada.
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38
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Iwaniuk AN, Heesy CP, Hall MI. Morphometrics of the eyes and orbits of the nocturnal Swallow-tailed Gull (Creagrus furcatus). CAN J ZOOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1139/z10-051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Swallow-tailed Gull ( Creagrus furcatus (Neboux, 1846)) is known for its nocturnal feeding habits and apparently large eyes. Despite frequent observations of its large eyes, detailed measurements of its eyes and orbits are wanting. Here, we provide a detailed analysis of the size and shape of the eye and orbits of this unique species in relation to a range of other gull species. Although the C. furcatus does have a slightly enlarged cornea and optical axis, neither the transverse orbit diameter nor the shape of its eye differs significantly from other larids. In addition, we found no significant difference between C. furcatus and other gulls in terms of its orbit dimensions and orbit orientation. We therefore conclude that C. furcatus does not possess a transversely enlarged eye, but rather a slightly larger cornea and longer eye. Our results do not, however, preclude the presence of other changes in the visual system, such as retinal morphology or neurophysiology, that could be adaptive for nocturnal feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N. Iwaniuk
- Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC 20718, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- Department of Physiology, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Christopher P. Heesy
- Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC 20718, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- Department of Physiology, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Margaret I. Hall
- Division of Birds, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC 20718, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
- Department of Anatomy, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- Department of Physiology, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
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Morphological differences between the eyeballs of nocturnal and diurnal amniotes revisited from optical perspectives of visual environments. Vision Res 2010; 50:936-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2010.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2009] [Revised: 01/06/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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40
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Hall MI, Iwaniuk AN, Gutiérrez-Ibáñez C. Optic Foramen Morphology and Activity Pattern in Birds. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2009; 292:1827-45. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.21007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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41
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Hall MI. The relationship between the lizard eye and associated bony features: a cautionary note for interpreting fossil activity patterns. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2009; 292:798-812. [PMID: 19462447 DOI: 10.1002/ar.20889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Activity pattern, the time of day when an animal is active, is associated with ecology. There are two major activity patterns: diurnal (awake during the day in a photopic environment) and nocturnal (awake at night in a scotopic environment). Lizards exhibit characteristic eye shapes associated with activity pattern, with scotopic-adapted lizard eyes optimized for visual sensitivity with large corneal diameters relative to their eye axial lengths, and photopic-adapted lizards optimized for visual acuity, with larger axial lengths of the eye relative to their corneal diameters. This study: (1) quantifies the relationship between the lizard eye and its associated bony anatomy (the orbit, sclerotic ring, and associated skull widths); (2) investigates how activity pattern is reflected in that bony anatomy; and (3) determines if it is possible to reliably interpret activity pattern for a lizard that does not have the soft tissue available for study, specifically, for a fossil. Knowledge of extinct lizards' activity patterns would be useful in making paleoecological interpretations. Here, 96 scotopic- and photopic-adapted lizard species are analyzed in a phylogenetic context. Although there is a close relationship between the lepidosaur eye and associated bony anatomy, based on these data activity pattern cannot be reliably interpreted for bony-only specimens, such as a fossil, possibly because of the limited ossification of the lepidosaur skull. Caution should be exercised when utilizing lizard bony anatomy to interpret light-level adaptation, either for a fossil lizard or as part of an extant phylogenetic bracket to interpret other extinct animals with sclerotic rings, such as dinosaurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret I Hall
- Department of Physiology, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona 85308, USA.
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