1
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Fogg LG, Chung WS, Justin Marshall N, Cortesi F, de Busserolles F. Multiple rod layers increase the speed and sensitivity of vision in nocturnal reef fishes. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231749. [PMID: 37989239 PMCID: PMC10688437 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Most vertebrates have one layer of the dim-light active rod photoreceptors. However, multiple rod layers, known as a multibank retina, can be found in over 100 species of fish, including several deep-sea species and one family of nocturnally active reef fish, the Holocentridae. Although seemingly associated with increased photon catch, the function of multibank retinas remained unknown. We used an integrative approach, combining histology, electrophysiology and amino acid sequence analysis, applied to three species of nocturnal reef fishes, two holocentrids with a multibank retina (Neoniphon sammara and Myripristis violacea) and an apogonid with a single rod bank (Ostorhinchus compressus), to determine the sensory advantage of multiple rod layers. Our results showed that fish with multibank retinas have both faster vision and enhanced responses to bright- and dim-light intensities. Faster vision was indicated by higher flicker fusion frequencies during temporal resolution electroretinography as well as faster retinal release rates estimated from their rhodopsin proteins. Enhanced sensitivity was demonstrated by broadened intensity-response curves derived from luminous sensitivity electroretinography. Overall, our findings provide the first functional evidence for enhanced dim-light sensitivity using a multibank retina while also suggesting novel roles for the adaptation in enhancing bright-light sensitivity and the speed of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily G. Fogg
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Zoological Institute, Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Wen-Sung Chung
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - N. Justin Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Fabio Cortesi
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Fanny de Busserolles
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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2
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Hu Y, Majoris JE, Buston PM, Webb JF. Ear Development in Select Coral Reef Fishes: Clues for the Role of Hearing in Larval Orientation Behavior? ICHTHYOLOGY & HERPETOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1643/i2022029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Hu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island 02881
| | - John E. Majoris
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215; Present address: University of Texas at Austin, Marine Science Institute, Port Aransas, Texas 78373;
| | - Peter M. Buston
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215;
| | - Jacqueline F. Webb
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island 02881
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3
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Van Nynatten A, Castiglione GM, de A Gutierrez E, Lovejoy NR, Chang BSW. Recreated Ancestral Opsin Associated with Marine to Freshwater Croaker Invasion Reveals Kinetic and Spectral Adaptation. Mol Biol Evol 2021; 38:2076-2087. [PMID: 33481002 PMCID: PMC8097279 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msab008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhodopsin, the light-sensitive visual pigment expressed in rod photoreceptors, is specialized for vision in dim-light environments. Aquatic environments are particularly challenging for vision due to the spectrally dependent attenuation of light, which can differ greatly in marine and freshwater systems. Among fish lineages that have successfully colonized freshwater habitats from ancestrally marine environments, croakers are known as highly visual benthic predators. In this study, we isolate rhodopsins from a diversity of freshwater and marine croakers and find that strong positive selection in rhodopsin is associated with a marine to freshwater transition in South American croakers. In order to determine if this is accompanied by significant shifts in visual abilities, we resurrected ancestral rhodopsin sequences and tested the experimental properties of ancestral pigments bracketing this transition using in vitro spectroscopic assays. We found the ancestral freshwater croaker rhodopsin is redshifted relative to its marine ancestor, with mutations that recapitulate ancestral amino acid changes along this transitional branch resulting in faster kinetics that are likely to be associated with more rapid dark adaptation. This could be advantageous in freshwater due to the redshifted spectrum and relatively narrow interface and frequent transitions between bright and dim-light environments. This study is the first to experimentally demonstrate that positively selected substitutions in ancestral visual pigments alter protein function to freshwater visual environments following a transition from an ancestrally marine state and provides insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying some of the physiological changes associated with this major habitat transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Van Nynatten
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Scarborough, ON, Canada
| | - Gianni M Castiglione
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eduardo de A Gutierrez
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan R Lovejoy
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Scarborough, ON, Canada.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Belinda S W Chang
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Centre for the Analysis of Genome Evolution and Function, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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4
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Elmer LK, Madliger CL, Blumstein DT, Elvidge CK, Fernández-Juricic E, Horodysky AZ, Johnson NS, McGuire LP, Swaisgood RR, Cooke SJ. Exploiting common senses: sensory ecology meets wildlife conservation and management. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 9:coab002. [PMID: 33815799 PMCID: PMC8009554 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Multidisciplinary approaches to conservation and wildlife management are often effective in addressing complex, multi-factor problems. Emerging fields such as conservation physiology and conservation behaviour can provide innovative solutions and management strategies for target species and systems. Sensory ecology combines the study of 'how animals acquire' and process sensory stimuli from their environments, and the ecological and evolutionary significance of 'how animals respond' to this information. We review the benefits that sensory ecology can bring to wildlife conservation and management by discussing case studies across major taxa and sensory modalities. Conservation practices informed by a sensory ecology approach include the amelioration of sensory traps, control of invasive species, reduction of human-wildlife conflicts and relocation and establishment of new populations of endangered species. We illustrate that sensory ecology can facilitate the understanding of mechanistic ecological and physiological explanations underlying particular conservation issues and also can help develop innovative solutions to ameliorate conservation problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Elmer
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Christine L Madliger
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Daniel T Blumstein
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1606, USA
| | - Chris K Elvidge
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | | | - Andrij Z Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Nicholas S Johnson
- USGS, Great Lakes Science Center, Hammond Bay Biological Station, Millersburg, MI 49759, USA
| | - Liam P McGuire
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Ronald R Swaisgood
- Institute for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Global, San Diego, CA 92027-7000, USA
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental and Interdisciplinary Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
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5
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Hasenei A, Kerstetter DW, Horodysky AZ, Brill RW. Physiological limits to inshore invasion of Indo-Pacific lionfish (Pterois spp.): insights from the functional characteristics of their visual system and hypoxia tolerance. Biol Invasions 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-020-02241-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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6
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Brill RW, Horodysky AZ, Place AR, Larkin MEM, Reimschuessel R. Effects of dietary taurine level on visual function in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0214347. [PMID: 31211780 PMCID: PMC6581246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dietary insufficiencies have been well documented to decrease growth rates and survival (and therefore overall production) in fish aquaculture. By contrast, the effects of dietary insufficiencies on the sensory biology of cultured fish remains largely unstudied. Diets based solely on plant protein sources could have advantages over fish-based diets because of the cost and ecological effects of the latter, but plant proteins lack the amino acid taurine. Adequate levels of taurine are, however, necessary for the development of a fully functional visual system in mammals. As part of ongoing studies to determine the suitability of plant-based diets, we investigated the effects of normal and reduced taurine dietary levels on retinal anatomy and function in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). We could not demonstrate any effects of dietary taurine level on retinal anatomy, nor the functional properties of luminous sensitivity and temporal resolution (measured as flicker fusion frequency). We did, however, find an effect on spectral sensitivity. The peak of spectral sensitivity of individuals fed a 5% taurine diet was rightward shifted (i.e., towards longer wavelengths) relative to that of fish fed a 0% or 1.5% taurine diet. This difference in in spectral sensitivity was due to a relatively lower level of middle wavelength pigment (maximum absorbance .500 nm) in fish fed a 5% taurine diet. Changes in spectral sensitivity resulting from diets containing different taurine levels are unlikely to be detrimental to fish destined for market, but could be in fishes that are being reared for stock enhancement programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W. Brill
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Andrij Z. Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Allen R. Place
- Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mary E. M. Larkin
- Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Renate Reimschuessel
- Center for Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
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7
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Lessios N. Using electroretinograms and multi-model inference to identify spectral classes of photoreceptors and relative opsin expression levels. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3595. [PMID: 28740757 PMCID: PMC5522723 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how individual photoreceptor cells factor in the spectral sensitivity of a visual system is essential to explain how they contribute to the visual ecology of the animal in question. Existing methods that model the absorption of visual pigments use templates which correspond closely to data from thin cross-sections of photoreceptor cells. However, few modeling approaches use a single framework to incorporate physical parameters of real photoreceptors, which can be fused, and can form vertical tiers. Akaike's information criterion (AICc) was used here to select absorptance models of multiple classes of photoreceptor cells that maximize information, given visual system spectral sensitivity data obtained using extracellular electroretinograms and structural parameters obtained by histological methods. This framework was first used to select among alternative hypotheses of photoreceptor number. It identified spectral classes from a range of dark-adapted visual systems which have between one and four spectral photoreceptor classes. These were the velvet worm, Principapillatus hitoyensis, the branchiopod water flea, Daphnia magna, normal humans, and humans with enhanced S-cone syndrome, a condition in which S-cone frequency is increased due to mutations in a transcription factor that controls photoreceptor expression. Data from the Asian swallowtail, Papilio xuthus, which has at least five main spectral photoreceptor classes in its compound eyes, were included to illustrate potential effects of model over-simplification on multi-model inference. The multi-model framework was then used with parameters of spectral photoreceptor classes and the structural photoreceptor array kept constant. The goal was to map relative opsin expression to visual pigment concentration. It identified relative opsin expression differences for two populations of the bluefin killifish, Lucania goodei. The modeling approach presented here will be useful in selecting the most likely alternative hypotheses of opsin-based spectral photoreceptor classes, using relative opsin expression and extracellular electroretinography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Lessios
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.,Current affiliation: Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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8
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Ashur MM, Johnston NK, Dixson DL. Impacts of Ocean Acidification on Sensory Function in Marine Organisms. Integr Comp Biol 2017; 57:63-80. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icx010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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9
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Warrington RE, Hart NS, Potter IC, Collin SP, Hemmi JM. Retinal temporal resolution and contrast sensitivity in the parasitic lamprey Mordacia mordax and its non-parasitic derivative Mordacia praecox. J Exp Biol 2017; 220:1245-1255. [PMID: 28108670 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.150383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lampreys and hagfishes are the sole extant representatives of the early agnathan (jawless) vertebrates. We compared retinal function of fully metamorphosed, immature Mordacia mordax (which are about to commence parasitic feeding) with those of sexually mature individuals of its non-parasitic derivative Mpraecox We focused on elucidating the retinal adaptations to dim-light environments in these nocturnally active lampreys, using electroretinography to determine the temporal resolution (flicker fusion frequency, FFF) and temporal contrast sensitivity of enucleated eyecups at different temperatures and light intensities. FFF was significantly affected by temperature and light intensity. Critical flicker fusion frequency (cFFF, the highest FFF recorded) of M. praecox and M. mordax increased from 15.1 and 21.8 Hz at 9°C to 31.1 and 36.9 Hz at 24°C, respectively. Contrast sensitivity of both species increased by an order of magnitude between 9 and 24°C, but remained comparatively constant across all light intensities. Although FFF values for Mordacia spp. are relatively low, retinal responses showed a particularly high contrast sensitivity of 625 in M. praecox and 710 in M. mordax at 24°C. This suggests selective pressures favour low temporal resolution and high contrast sensitivity in both species, thereby enhancing the capture of photons and increasing sensitivity in their light-limited environments. FFF indicated all retinal photoreceptors exhibit the same temporal response. Although the slow response kinetics (i.e. low FFF) and saturation of the response at bright light intensities characterise the photoreceptors of both species as rod-like, it is unusual for such a photoreceptor to be functional under scotopic and photopic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Warrington
- School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia .,UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nathan S Hart
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Ian C Potter
- Centre for Fish, Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems Research, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Shaun P Collin
- School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.,UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jan M Hemmi
- School of Biological Sciences (M092), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.,UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
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10
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Deary AL, Hilton EJ. Influence of cladogenesis on feeding structures in drums (Teleostei: Sciaenidae). ZOOLOGY 2016; 120:53-61. [PMID: 27618706 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Drums (family Sciaenidae) are common in tropical to temperate coastal and estuarine habitats worldwide and present a broad spectrum of morphological diversity. The anatomical variation in this family is particularly evident in their feeding apparatus, which may reflect the partitioning of adult foraging habitats. Adult and early life history stage sciaenids may display ecomorphological patterns in oral and pharyngeal jaw elements but because sciaenids are hierarchically related, the morphological variation of the feeding apparatus cannot be analyzed as independent data. Morphological patterns have been identified in three sciaenid genera from the Chesapeake Bay but it is not known if these patterns are present in other genera of the family and if such patterns are constrained by phylogenetic history. In this study, phylogenetic comparative methods were applied to two sets of oral jaw data obtained from growth series of 11 species of cleared and double-stained Chesapeake Bay sciaenids and alcohol-preserved museum specimens representing 65 of the 66 recognized genera to determine the magnitude of phylogenetic dependence present in the structure of the oral jaws using a recent molecular phylogeny of the family. Pagel's lambda, a measure of phylogenetic signal, was low for pelagic sciaenids in premaxilla, lower jaw, and ascending process lengths, indicating influence of selective forces on the condition of these traits. Conversely, for benthic sciaenids, phylogenetic signal was high for lower jaw and ascending process lengths, indicating significant phylogenetic constraint for their condition in these taxa. Pagel's lambda was intermediate for premaxilla length in benthic sciaenids, suggesting that the length of the premaxilla is influenced by a mix of selective forces and phylogenetic constraint. Although the ecomorphological patterns identified in the oral jaws of scaienids are not entirely free of phylogenetic dependence, selective forces related to foraging are likely driving the evolution of these structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L Deary
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William and Mary, P.O. Box 1346, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA.
| | - Eric J Hilton
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William and Mary, P.O. Box 1346, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA
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11
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Champ CM, Vorobyev M, Marshall NJ. Colour thresholds in a coral reef fish. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2016; 3:160399. [PMID: 27703704 PMCID: PMC5043323 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.160399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Coral reef fishes are among the most colourful animals in the world. Given the diversity of lifestyles and habitats on the reef, it is probable that in many instances coloration is a compromise between crypsis and communication. However, human observation of this coloration is biased by our primate visual system. Most animals have visual systems that are 'tuned' differently to humans; optimized for different parts of the visible spectrum. To understand reef fish colours, we need to reconstruct the appearance of colourful patterns and backgrounds as they are seen through the eyes of fish. Here, the coral reef associated triggerfish, Rhinecanthus aculeatus, was tested behaviourally to determine the limits of its colour vision. This is the first demonstration of behavioural colour discrimination thresholds in a coral reef species and is a critical step in our understanding of communication and speciation in this vibrant colourful habitat. Fish were trained to discriminate between a reward colour stimulus and series of non-reward colour stimuli and the discrimination thresholds were found to correspond well with predictions based on the receptor noise limited visual model and anatomy of the eye. Colour discrimination abilities of both reef fish and a variety of animals can therefore now be predicted using the parameters described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. M. Champ
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M. Vorobyev
- Department of Optometry and visual science, Auckland University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - N. J. Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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12
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Horodysky AZ, Cooke SJ, Graves JE, Brill RW. Fisheries conservation on the high seas: linking conservation physiology and fisheries ecology for the management of large pelagic fishes. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2016; 4:cov059. [PMID: 27382467 PMCID: PMC4922246 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cov059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Populations of tunas, billfishes and pelagic sharks are fished at or over capacity in many regions of the world. They are captured by directed commercial and recreational fisheries (the latter of which often promote catch and release) or as incidental catch or bycatch in commercial fisheries. Population assessments of pelagic fishes typically incorporate catch-per-unit-effort time-series data from commercial and recreational fisheries; however, there have been notable changes in target species, areas fished and depth-specific gear deployments over the years that may have affected catchability. Some regional fisheries management organizations take into account the effects of time- and area-specific changes in the behaviours of fish and fishers, as well as fishing gear, to standardize catch-per-unit-effort indices and refine population estimates. However, estimates of changes in stock size over time may be very sensitive to underlying assumptions of the effects of oceanographic conditions and prey distribution on the horizontal and vertical movement patterns and distribution of pelagic fishes. Effective management and successful conservation of pelagic fishes requires a mechanistic understanding of their physiological and behavioural responses to environmental variability, potential for interaction with commercial and recreational fishing gear, and the capture process. The interdisciplinary field of conservation physiology can provide insights into pelagic fish demography and ecology (including environmental relationships and interspecific interactions) by uniting the complementary expertise and skills of fish physiologists and fisheries scientists. The iterative testing by one discipline of hypotheses generated by the other can span the fundamental-applied science continuum, leading to the development of robust insights supporting informed management. The resulting species-specific understanding of physiological abilities and tolerances can help to improve stock assessments, develop effective bycatch-reduction strategies, predict rates of post-release mortality, and forecast the population effects of environmental change. In this synthesis, we review several examples of these interdisciplinary collaborations that currently benefit pelagic fisheries management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrij Z. Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, 100 East Queen Street, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Steven J. Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1S 5B6
| | - John E. Graves
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA
| | - Richard W. Brill
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA
- Behavioral Ecology Branch, James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, Highlands, NJ 07732, USA
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13
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Deary AL, Hilton EJ. Comparative ontogeny of the feeding apparatus of sympatric drums (Perciformes: Sciaenidae) in the Chesapeake Bay. J Morphol 2015; 277:183-95. [PMID: 26558606 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The anatomy of the feeding apparatus in fishes, including both oral and pharyngeal jaw elements, is closely related to the ecology of a species. During ontogeny, the oral and pharyngeal jaws undergo dramatic changes. To better understand how such ontogenetic changes occur and relate to the feeding ecology of a species, ontogenetic series of four closely related members of the family Sciaenidae (Cynoscion nebulosus, Cynoscion regalis, Micropogonias undulatus, and Leiostomus xanthurus) were examined. Sciaenids were selected because as adults they exhibit considerable specialization of the feeding apparatus correlated with differences in foraging habitats. However, it is not clear when during ontogeny the structural specializations of the feeding apparatus develop, and thereby enable early life history stage (ELHS) sciaenids to partition their foraging habitats. A regression tree was recovered from the analysis and three divergences were identified during ontogeny. There are no measurable differences in elements of the feeding apparatus until the first divergence at 8.4 mm head length (HL), which was attributed to differences in average gill filament length on the second ceratobranchial. The second divergence occurred at 14.1 mm HL and was associated with premaxilla length. The final divergence occurred at 19.8 mm HL and was associated with differences in the toothed area of the fifth certatobranchial. These morphological divergences suggest that ELHS sciaenids may be structurally able to partition their foraging habitats as early as 8.4 mm HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L Deary
- Department of Coastal Sciences, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, University of Southern Mississippi, Ocean Springs, 39564, Mississippi
| | - Eric J Hilton
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William and Mary, Gloucester Point, 23062, Virginia
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14
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Dougherty LF, Johnsen S, Caldwell RL, Marshall NJ. A dynamic broadband reflector built from microscopic silica spheres in the 'disco' clam Ctenoides ales. J R Soc Interface 2015; 11:20140407. [PMID: 24966236 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2014.0407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The 'disco' or 'electric' clam Ctenoides ales (Limidae) is the only species of bivalve known to have a behaviourally mediated photic display. This display is so vivid that it has been repeatedly confused for bioluminescence, but it is actually the result of scattered light. The flashing occurs on the mantle lip, where electron microscopy revealed two distinct tissue sides: one highly scattering side that contains dense aggregations of spheres composed of silica, and one highly absorbing side that does not. High-speed video confirmed that the two sides act in concert to alternate between vivid broadband reflectance and strong absorption in the blue region of the spectrum. Optical modelling suggests that the diameter of the spheres is nearly optimal for scattering visible light, especially at shorter wavelengths which predominate in their environment. This simple mechanism produces a striking optical effect that may function as a signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey F Dougherty
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Sönke Johnsen
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Roy L Caldwell
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - N Justin Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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15
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Harrington KA, Hrabik TR, Mensinger AF. Visual sensitivity of deepwater fishes in Lake Superior. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0116173. [PMID: 25646781 PMCID: PMC4315459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0116173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The predator-prey interactions in the offshore food web of Lake Superior have been well documented, but the sensory systems mediating these interactions remain unknown. The deepwater sculpin, (Myoxocephalus thompsoni), siscowet (Salvelinus namaycush siscowet), and kiyi (Coregonus kiyi) inhabit low light level environments. To investigate the potential role of vision in predator-prey interactions, electroretinography was used to determine visual sensitivity for each species. Spectral sensitivity curves revealed peak sensitivity at 525 nm for each species which closely corresponds to the prevalent downwelling light spectrum at depth. To determine if sufficient light was available to mediate predator-prey interactions, visual sensitivity was correlated with the intensity of downwelling light in Lake Superior to construct visual depth profiles for each species. Sufficient daytime irradiance exists for visual interactions to approximately 325 m for siscowet and kiyi and 355 m for the deepwater sculpin during summer months. Under full moon conditions, sufficient irradiance exists to elicit ERG response to light available at approximately 30 m for the siscowet and kiyi and 45 m for the deepwater sculpin. Visual interactions are therefore possible at the depths and times when these organisms overlap in the water column indicating that vision may play a far greater role at depth in deep freshwater lakes than had been previously documented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A. Harrington
- Biology Department, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1035 Kirby Drive, Duluth, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Thomas R. Hrabik
- Biology Department, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1035 Kirby Drive, Duluth, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Allen F. Mensinger
- Biology Department, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1035 Kirby Drive, Duluth, Minnesota, United States of America
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan S. HART
- School of Animal Biology and the Oceans Institute; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Perth Australia
| | - Shaun P. COLLIN
- School of Animal Biology and the Oceans Institute; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Perth Australia
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17
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Spectral sensitivity, luminous sensitivity, and temporal resolution of the visual systems in three sympatric temperate coastal shark species. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2014; 200:997-1013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-014-0950-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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18
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Chung WS, Marshall NJ, Watson SA, Munday PL, Nilsson GE. Ocean acidification slows retinal function in a damselfish through interference with GABAA receptors. J Exp Biol 2014; 217:323-6. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.092478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Vision is one of the most efficient senses used by animals to catch prey and avoid predators. Therefore, any deficiency in the visual system could have important consequences for individual performance. We examined the effect of CO2 levels projected to occur by the end of this century on retinal responses in a damselfish, by determining the threshold of its flicker electroretinogram (fERG). The maximal flicker frequency of the retina was reduced by continuous exposure to elevated CO2, potentially impairing the capacity of fish to react to fast events. This effect was rapidly counteracted by treatment with a GABA antagonist (gabazine), indicating that GABAA receptor function is disrupted by elevated CO2. In addition to demonstrating the effects of elevated CO2 on fast flicker fusion of marine fishes, our results show that the fish retina could be a model system to study the effects of high CO2 on neural processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Sung Chung
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - N. Justin Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia
| | - Sue-Ann Watson
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Philip L. Munday
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Göran E. Nilsson
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo 0316, Norway
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19
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Horodysky AZ, Brill RW, Crawford KC, Seagroves ES, Johnson AK. Comparative visual ecophysiology of mid-Atlantic temperate reef fishes. Biol Open 2013; 2:1371-81. [PMID: 24285711 PMCID: PMC3863422 DOI: 10.1242/bio.20136825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The absolute light sensitivities, temporal properties, and spectral sensitivities of the visual systems of three mid-Atlantic temperate reef fishes (Atlantic spadefish [Ephippidae: Chaetodipterus faber], tautog [Labridae: Tautoga onitis], and black sea bass [Serranidae: Centropristis striata]) were studied via electroretinography (ERG). Pelagic Atlantic spadefish exhibited higher temporal resolution but a narrower dynamic range than the two more demersal foragers. The higher luminous sensitivities of tautog and black sea bass were similar to other benthic and demersal coastal mid-Atlantic fishes. Flicker fusion frequency experiments revealed significant interspecific differences at maximum intensities that correlated with lifestyle and habitat. Spectral responses of the three species spanned 400-610 nm, with high likelihood of cone dichromacy providing the basis for color and contrast discrimination. Significant day-night differences in spectral responses were evident in spadefish and black sea bass but not tautog, a labrid with characteristic structure-associated nocturnal torpor. Atlantic spadefish responded to a wider range of wavelengths than did deeper-dwelling tautog or black sea bass. Collectively, these results suggest that temperate reef-associated fishes are well-adapted to their gradient of brighter to dimmer photoclimates, representative of their unique ecologies and life histories. Continuing anthropogenic degradation of water quality in coastal environments, at a pace faster than the evolution of visual systems, may however impede visual foraging and reproductive signaling in temperate reef fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrij Z Horodysky
- Department of Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23664, USA
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20
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Michelle McComb D, Kajiura SM, Horodysky AZ, Frank TM. Comparative Visual Function in Predatory Fishes from the Indian River Lagoon. Physiol Biochem Zool 2013; 86:285-97. [DOI: 10.1086/670260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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21
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Jordan LK, Mandelman JW, McComb DM, Fordham SV, Carlson JK, Werner TB. Linking sensory biology and fisheries bycatch reduction in elasmobranch fishes: a review with new directions for research. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2013; 1:cot002. [PMID: 27293586 PMCID: PMC4732448 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cot002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Incidental capture, or bycatch, in fisheries represents a substantial threat to the sustainability of elasmobranch populations worldwide. Consequently, researchers are increasingly investigating elasmobranch bycatch reduction methods, including some focused on these species' sensory capabilities, particularly their electrosensory systems. To guide this research, we review current knowledge of elasmobranch sensory biology and feeding ecology with respect to fishing gear interactions and include examples of bycatch reduction methods used for elasmobranchs as well as other taxonomic groups. We discuss potential elasmobranch bycatch reduction strategies for various fishing gear types based on the morphological, physiological, and behavioural characteristics of species within this diverse group. In select examples, we indicate how an understanding of the physiology and sensory biology of vulnerable, bycatch-prone, non-target elasmobranch species can help in the identification of promising options for bycatch reduction. We encourage collaboration among researchers studying bycatch reduction across taxa to provide better understanding of the broad effects of bycatch reduction methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K. Jordan
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Corresponding author: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. Tel: +1 909 240 9703.
| | - John W. Mandelman
- John H. Prescott Marine Laboratory, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA 02110, USA
| | | | - Sonja V. Fordham
- Shark Advocates International, a project of The Ocean Foundation, Washington, DC 20036, USA
| | - John K. Carlson
- Southeast Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries Service, Panama City, FL 32408, USA
| | - Timothy B. Werner
- Consortium for Wildlife Bycatch Reduction, New England Aquarium, Boston, MA 02110, USA
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22
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Matsumoto T, Okada T, Sawada Y, Ishibashi Y. Visual spectral sensitivity of photopic juvenile Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2012; 38:911-917. [PMID: 22095248 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-011-9574-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2010] [Accepted: 11/07/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Although Pacific bluefin tuna is a species that relies on vision, its photopic visual function is not well known; we therefore recorded electroretinograms to investigate photopic spectral sensitivity in juveniles of this species (49-81 days post-hatch; standard length 74-223 mm). The peak spectral sensitivity wavelength was 505 nm. We estimated that two (λ(max) = 512-515 nm and 423-436 nm) or three (λ(max) = 512-515 nm, 423-436 nm, and 473 nm) types of cone visual pigments contribute to photopic vision; these spectral sensitivities are adapted to surface water habitats in clear ocean and coastal water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taro Matsumoto
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Kinki University, Nara, Nara, 631-8505, Japan
| | - Tokihiko Okada
- Ohshima Experiment Station, Fisheries Laboratory, Kinki University, 1790-4, Ohshima, Kushimoto, Wakayama, 649-3633, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Sawada
- Ohshima Experiment Station, Fisheries Laboratory, Kinki University, 1790-4, Ohshima, Kushimoto, Wakayama, 649-3633, Japan
| | - Yasunori Ishibashi
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Agriculture, Kinki University, Nara, Nara, 631-8505, Japan.
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Robinson E, Jerrett AR, Black SE, Davison W. Visual acuity of snapper Pagrus auratus: effect of size and spectral composition. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2011; 79:1883-1894. [PMID: 22141893 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2011.03130.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Visual acuity of the commercially important sparid Pagrus auratus was tested using the optomotor response. Juvenile fish were categorized by size as group 1 (50 g), group 2 (100 g), group 3 (150 g), group 4 (300 g), group 5 (500 g) and group 6 (800 g). Group 3 fish demonstrated excellent visual acuity (minimum separable angle, M(SA), 1°), which was improved compared with the smaller fish groups (groups 1 and 2, M(SA), 2°). In the larger fish groups, however, a reduction in visual acuity was observed (groups 4, 5 and 6 M(SA), 4°). Group 2 (100 g) fish displayed positive optomotor responses in long wavelength light (red) but reduced responses in short wavelengths (blue). Red light sensitivity is beneficial for the estuarine lifestyle of these fish, where light is predominantly at long wavelengths. In contrast, group 6 (800 g) fish displayed improved acuity in blue and green light and reduced acuity in red light. Fish of this size move away from the estuary to open oceans, where light is predominantly in the shorter wavelengths (blue-green). These results support the sensitivity hypothesis for the relationship between fish visual systems and the light environment they inhabit.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Robinson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand.
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Horodysky AZ, Brill RW, Bushnell PG, Musick JA, Latour RJ. Comparative metabolic rates of common western North Atlantic Ocean sciaenid fishes. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2011; 79:235-255. [PMID: 21722122 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2011.03017.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The resting metabolic rates (R(R)) of western North Atlantic Ocean sciaenids, such as Atlantic croaker Micropogonias undulatus, spot Leiostomus xanthurus and kingfishes Menticirrhus spp., as well as the active metabolic rates (R(A)) of M. undulatus and L. xanthurus were investigated to facilitate inter and intraspecific comparisons of their energetic ecology. The R(R) of M. undulatus and L. xanthurus were typical for fishes with similar lifestyles. The R(R) of Menticirrhus spp. were elevated relative to those of M. undulatus and L. xanthurus, but below those of high-energy-demand species such as tunas Thunnus spp. and dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus. Repeated-measures non-linear mixed-effects models were applied to account for within-individual autocorrelation and corrected for non-constant variance typical of noisy R(A) data sets. Repeated-measures models incorporating autoregressive first-order [AR(1)] and autoregressive moving average (ARMA) covariances provided significantly superior fits, more precise parameter estimates (i.e. reduced s.e.) and y-intercept estimates that more closely approximated measured R(R) for M. undulatus and L. xanthurus than standard least-squares regression procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Z Horodysky
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Gloucester Point, VA, USA.
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Horodysky AZ, Brill RW, Warrant EJ, Musick JA, Latour RJ. Comparative visual function in four piscivorous fishes inhabiting Chesapeake Bay. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 213:1751-61. [PMID: 20435826 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.038117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining optimal visual performance is a difficult task in photodynamic coastal and estuarine waters because of the unavoidable tradeoffs between luminous sensitivity and spatial and temporal resolution, yet the visual systems of coastal piscivores remain understudied despite differences in their ecomorphology and microhabitat use. We therefore used electroretinographic techniques to describe the light sensitivities, temporal properties and spectral sensitivities of the visual systems of four piscivorous fishes common to coastal and estuarine waters of the western North Atlantic: striped bass (Morone saxatilis), bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix), summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) and cobia (Rachycentron canadum). Benthic summer flounder exhibited higher luminous sensitivity and broader dynamic range than the three pelagic foragers. The former were at the more sensitive end of an emerging continuum for coastal fishes. By contrast, pelagic species were comparatively less sensitive, but showed larger day-night differences, consistent with their use of diel light-variant photic habitats. Flicker fusion frequency experiments revealed significant interspecific differences at maximum intensities that correlated with lifestyle and habitat. Spectral responses of most species spanned 400-610 nm, with significant day-night differences in striped bass and bluefish. Anadromous striped bass additionally responded to longer wavelengths, similar to many freshwater fishes. Collectively, these results suggest that pelagic piscivores are well adapted to bright photoclimates, which may be at odds with the modern state of eutrified coastal and estuarine waters that they utilize. Recent anthropogenic degradation of water quality in coastal environments, at a pace faster than the evolution of visual systems, may impede visually foraging piscivores, change selected prey, and eventually restructure ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrij Z Horodysky
- Department of Fisheries Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, College of William & Mary, Rt 1208 Greate Road, Gloucester Point, VA 23062, USA.
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Phillips K. SEEING IN THE SEA. J Exp Biol 2008. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.026245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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