1
|
Helm B, Liedvogel M. Avian migration clocks in a changing world. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2024; 210:691-716. [PMID: 38305877 PMCID: PMC11226503 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-023-01688-w] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Avian long-distance migration requires refined programming to orchestrate the birds' movements on annual temporal and continental spatial scales. Programming is particularly important as long-distance movements typically anticipate future environmental conditions. Hence, migration has long been of particular interest in chronobiology. Captivity studies using a proxy, the shift to nocturnality during migration seasons (i.e., migratory restlessness), have revealed circannual and circadian regulation, as well as an innate sense of direction. Thanks to rapid development of tracking technology, detailed information from free-flying birds, including annual-cycle data and actograms, now allows relating this mechanistic background to behaviour in the wild. Likewise, genomic approaches begin to unravel the many physiological pathways that contribute to migration. Despite these advances, it is still unclear how migration programmes are integrated with specific environmental conditions experienced during the journey. Such knowledge is imminently important as temporal environments undergo rapid anthropogenic modification. Migratory birds as a group are not dealing well with the changes, yet some species show remarkable adjustments at behavioural and genetic levels. Integrated research programmes and interdisciplinary collaborations are needed to understand the range of responses of migratory birds to environmental change, and more broadly, the functioning of timing programmes under natural conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Helm
- Swiss Ornithological Institute, Bird Migration Unit, Seerose 1, CH-6204, Sempach, Schweiz.
| | - Miriam Liedvogel
- Institute of Avian Research, An Der Vogelwarte 21, 26386, Wilhelmshaven, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sblendorio JM, Vonhof MJ, Gill SA. Migratory singers dynamically overlap the signal space of a breeding warbler community. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11013. [PMID: 38405408 PMCID: PMC10893555 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Migratory species inhabit many communities along their migratory routes. Across taxa, these species repeatedly move into and out of communities, interacting with each other and locally breeding species and competing for resources and niche space. However, their influence is rarely considered in analyses of ecological processes within the communities they temporarily occupy. Here, we explore the impact of migratory species on a breeding community using the framework of acoustic signal space, a limited resource in which sounds of species within communities co-exist. Migrating New World warblers (Parulidae, hereafter referred to as migrant species) often sing during refueling stops in areas and at times during which locally breeding warbler species (hereafter breeding species) are singing to establish territories and attract mates. We used eBird data to determine the co-occurrence of 19 migrant and 11 breeding warbler species across spring migration in SW Michigan, generated a signal space from song recordings of these species, and examined patterns of signaling overlap experienced by breeding species as migrants moved through the community. Migrant species were present for two-thirds of the breeding season of local species, including periods when breeding species established territories and attracted mates. Signaling niche overlap experienced by individual breeding species was idiosyncratic and varied over time, yet niche overlap between migrant and breeding species occurred more commonly than between breeding species or between migrant species. Nevertheless, the proportion of niche overlap between migrant and breeding warblers was similar to overlap among breeding species. Our findings showed that singing by migrant species overlapped the signals of many breeding species, suggesting that migrants could have unexplored impacts on communication in breeding species, potentially affecting song detection and song evolution. Our study contributes to a growing body of research documenting the impacts of migratory species on communities and ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M. Sblendorio
- Department of Biological SciencesWestern Michigan UniversityKalamazooMichiganUSA
| | - Maarten J. Vonhof
- Department of Biological SciencesWestern Michigan UniversityKalamazooMichiganUSA
- Institute of the Environment and SustainabilityWestern Michigan UniversityKalamazooMichiganUSA
| | - Sharon A. Gill
- Department of Biological SciencesWestern Michigan UniversityKalamazooMichiganUSA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sharma A, Sur S, Tripathi V, Kumar V. Genetic Control of Avian Migration: Insights from Studies in Latitudinal Passerine Migrants. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1191. [PMID: 37372370 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Twice-a-year, large-scale movement of billions of birds across latitudinal gradients is one of the most fascinating behavioral phenomena seen among animals. These seasonal voyages in autumn southwards and in spring northwards occur within a discrete time window and, as part of an overall annual itinerary, involve close interaction of the endogenous rhythm at several levels with prevailing photoperiod and temperature. The overall success of seasonal migrations thus depends on their close coupling with the other annual sub-cycles, namely those of the breeding, post-breeding recovery, molt and non-migratory periods. There are striking alterations in the daily behavior and physiology with the onset and end of the migratory period, as shown by the phase inversions in behavioral (a diurnal passerine bird becomes nocturnal and flies at night) and neural activities. Interestingly, there are also differences in the behavior, physiology and regulatory strategies between autumn and spring (vernal) migrations. Concurrent molecular changes occur in regulatory (brain) and metabolic (liver, flight muscle) tissues, as shown in the expression of genes particularly associated with 24 h timekeeping, fat accumulation and the overall metabolism. Here, we present insights into the genetic basis of migratory behavior based on studies using both candidate and global gene expression approaches in passerine migrants, with special reference to Palearctic-Indian migratory blackheaded and redheaded buntings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aakansha Sharma
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Sayantan Sur
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226007, India
| | - Vatsala Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110003, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liddle TA, Stevenson TJ, Majumdar G. Photoperiodic regulation of avian physiology: From external coincidence to seasonal reproduction. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:890-901. [PMID: 35535960 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Seasonal cycles of environmental cues generate variation in the timing of life-history transition events across taxa. It is through the entrainment of internal, endogenous rhythms of organisms to these external, exogenous rhythms in environment, such as cycling temperature and daylight, by which organisms can regulate and time life history transitions. Here, we review the current understanding of how photoperiod both stimulates and terminates seasonal reproduction in birds. The review describes the role of external coincidence timing, the process by which photoperiod is proposed to stimulate reproductive development. Then, the molecular basis of light detection and the photoperiodic regulation of neuroendocrine timing of seasonal reproduction in birds is presented. Current data indicates that vertebrate ancient opsin is the predominant photoreceptor for light detection by the hypothalamus, compared to neuropsin and rhodopsin. The review then connects light detection to well-characterized hypothalamic and pituitary gland molecules involved in the photoperiodic regulation of reproduction. In birds, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone synthesis and release are controlled by photoperiodic cues via thyrotropin-stimulating hormone-β (TSHβ) independent and dependent pathways, respectively. The review then highlights the role of D-box and E-box binding motifs in the promoter regions of photoperiodic genes, in particular Eyes-absent 3, as the key link between circadian clock function and photoperiodic time measurement. Based on the available evidence, the review proposes that at least two molecular programs form the basis for external coincidence timing in birds: photoperiodic responsiveness by TSHβ pathways and endogenous internal timing by gonadotropin synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Adam Liddle
- Laboratory of Seasonal Biology, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tyler John Stevenson
- Laboratory of Seasonal Biology, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Gaurav Majumdar
- Laboratory of Seasonal Biology, Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sharma A, Tripathi V, Kumar V. Control and adaptability of seasonal changes in behavior and physiology of latitudinal avian migrants: Insights from laboratory studies in Palearctic-Indian migratory buntings. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:902-918. [PMID: 35677956 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Twice-a-year migrations, one in autumn and the other in spring, occur within a discrete time window with striking alterations in the behavior and physiology, as regulated by the interaction of endogenous rhythms with prevailing photoperiod. These seasonal voyages are not isolated events; rather, they are part of an overall annual itinerary and remain closely coupled to the other annual subcycles, called seasonal life history states (LHSs). The success of migration depends on appropriate timing of the initiation and termination of each LHS, for example, reproduction, molt, summer nonmigratory, preautumn migratory (fattening and weight gain), autumn migratory, winter nonmigratory (wnM), prevernal (spring) migratory (fattening and weight gain), and spring migratory LHSs. Migration-linked photoperiod-induced changes include the body fattening and weight gain, nocturnal Zugunruhe (migratory restlessness), elevated triglycerides and free fatty acids, triiodothyronine and corticosterone levels. Hypothalamic expression of the thyroid hormone-responsive dio2 and dio3, light-responsive per2, cry1, and adcyap1 and th (tyrosine hydroxylase, involved in dopamine biosynthesis) genes also show significant changes with transition from wnM to the vernal migratory LHS. Concurrent changes in the expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism and its transport also occur in the liver and flight muscles, respectively. Interestingly, there are clear differences in the behavioral and physiological phenotypes, and associated molecular changes, between the autumn and vernal migrations. In this review, we discuss seasonal changes in the behavior and physiology, and present molecular insights into the development of migratory phenotypes in latitudinal avian migrants, with special reference to Palearctic-Indian migratory buntings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aakansha Sharma
- Department of Zoology, IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Vatsala Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, IndoUS Center in Chronobiology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stevenson TJ, Liddle TA, Stewart C, Marshall CJ, Majumdar G. Neural programming of seasonal physiology in birds and mammals: A modular perspective. Horm Behav 2022; 142:105153. [PMID: 35325691 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Most animals in the temperate zone exhibit robust seasonal rhythms in neuroendocrine, physiological and behavioral processes. The integration of predictive and supplementary environmental cues (e.g., nutrients) involves a series of discrete, and interconnected brain regions that span hypothalamic, thalamic, mesencephalic, and limbic regions. Species-specific adaptive changes in these neuroendocrine structures and cellular plasticity have likely evolved to support seasonal life-history transitions. Despite significant advances in our understanding of ecological responses to predictive and supplementary environmental cues, there remains a paucity of literature on how these diverse cues impact the underlying neural and cellular substrates. To date, most scientific approach has focused on neuroendocrine responses to annual changes in daylength, referred to as photoperiod, due to the robust physiological changes to light manipulations in laboratory settings. In this review, we highlight the relatively few animal models that have been effectively used to investigate how predictive day lengths, and supplementary cues are integrated across hypothalamic nuclei, and discuss key findings of how seasonal rhythms in physiology are governed by adaptive neuroendocrine changes. We discuss how specific brain regions integrate environmental cues to form a complex multiunit or 'modular' system that has evolved to optimize the timing of seasonal physiology. Overall, the review aims to highlight the existence of a modular network of neural regions that independently contribute to timing seasonal physiology. This paper proposes that a multi-modular neuroendocrine system has evolved in which independent neural 'units' operate to support species-specific seasonal rhythms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J Stevenson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Timothy A Liddle
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Calum Stewart
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher J Marshall
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Gaurav Majumdar
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lawrence KB, Barlow CR, Bensusan K, Perez C, Willis SG. Phenological trends in the pre- and post-breeding migration of long-distance migratory birds. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2022; 28:375-389. [PMID: 34606660 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phenological mismatch is often cited as a putative driver of population declines in long-distance migratory birds. The mechanisms and cues utilized to advance breeding ground arrival will impact the adaptability of species to further warming. Furthermore, timing of post-breeding migration potentially faces diverging selective pressures, with earlier onset of tropical dry seasons favouring migration advancement, while longer growing seasons in temperate areas could facilitate delayed departures. Despite this, few studies exist of migration phenology on the non-breeding grounds or on post-breeding passage. Here, we use first arrival and last departure dates of 20 species of trans-Saharan migratory birds from tropical non-breeding grounds (The Gambia), between 1964 and 2019. Additionally, we use first arrival and last departure dates, as well as median arrival and departure dates, at an entry/departure site to/from Europe (Gibraltar), between 1991 and 2018. We assess phenological trends in pre- and post-breeding migration, as well as individual species' durations of stay in breeding and non-breeding areas. Furthermore, we assess the extent to which inter-annual variation in these timings may be explained by meteorological and ecological variables. We find significant advances in pre-breeding migration at both locations, while post-breeding migration is delayed. At Gibraltar, these trends do not differ between first/last and median dates of migration. The combination of these trends suggests substantial changes in the temporal usage of the two continents by migratory birds. Duration of stay (of species, not individuals) within Europe increased by 16 days, on average, over the 27-year monitoring period. By contrast, duration of species' stays on the non-breeding range declined by 63 days, on average, over the 56-year monitoring period. Taken together these changes suggest substantial, previously unreported alterations to annual routines in Afro-Palaearctic migrants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Keith Bensusan
- The Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society (GONHS), Gibraltar City, Gibraltar
| | - Charles Perez
- The Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society (GONHS), Gibraltar City, Gibraltar
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
DeMoranville KJ, Carter WA, Pierce BJ, McWilliams SR. Flight and dietary antioxidants influence antioxidant expression and activity in a migratory bird. Integr Org Biol 2021; 4:obab035. [PMID: 35112051 PMCID: PMC8802218 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obab035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecologically relevant factors such as exercise and diet quality can directly influence how physiological systems work including those involved in maintaining oxidative balance; however, to our knowledge, no studies to date have focused on how such factors directly affect expression of key components of the endogenous antioxidant system (i.e., transcription factors, select antioxidant genes, and corresponding antioxidant enzymes) in several metabolically active tissues of a migratory songbird. We conducted a three-factor experiment that tested the following hypotheses: (H1) Daily flying over several weeks increases the expression of transcription factors NRF2 and PPARs as well as endogenous antioxidant genes (i.e., CAT, SOD1, SOD2, GPX1, GPX4), and upregulates endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities (i.e., CAT, SOD, GPx). (H2) Songbirds fed diets composed of more 18:2n-6 PUFA are more susceptible to oxidative damage and thus upregulate their endogenous antioxidant system compared with when fed diets with less PUFA. (H3) Songbirds fed dietary anthocyanins gain additional antioxidant protection and thus upregulate their endogenous antioxidant system less compared with songbirds not fed anthocyanins. Flight training increased the expression of 3 of the 6 antioxidant genes and transcription factors measured in the liver, consistent with H1, but for only one gene (SOD2) in the pectoralis. Dietary fat quality had no effect on antioxidant pathways (H2), whereas dietary anthocyanins increased the expression of select antioxidant enzymes in the pectoralis, but not in the liver (H3). These tissue-specific differences in response to flying and dietary antioxidants are likely explained by functional differences between tissues as well as fundamental differences in their turnover rates. The consumption of dietary antioxidants along with regular flying enables birds during migration to stimulate the expression of genes involved in antioxidant protection likely through increasing the transcriptional activity of NRF2 and PPARs, and thereby demonstrates for the first time that these relevant ecological factors affect the regulation of key antioxidant pathways in wild birds. What remains to be demonstrated is how the extent of these ecological factors (i.e., intensity or duration of flight, amounts of dietary antioxidants) influences the regulation of these antioxidant pathways and thus oxidative balance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Wales A Carter
- Dept. of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston RI 02881
| | | | - Scott R McWilliams
- Dept. of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston RI 02881
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Goymann W, Schwabl H. The tyranny of phylogeny-A plea for a less dogmatic stance on two-species comparisons: Funding bodies, journals and referees discourage two- or few-species comparisons, but such studies provide essential insights complementary to phylogenetic comparative studies. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2100071. [PMID: 34155665 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Phylogenetically controlled studies across multiple species correct for taxonomic confounds in physiological performance traits. Therefore, they are preferred over comparisons of two or few closely-related species. Funding bodies, referees and journal editors nowadays often even reject to consider detailed comparisons of two or few closely related species. Here, we plea for a less dogmatic stance on such comparisons, because phylogenetic studies come with their own limitations similar in magnitude as those of two-species comparisons. Two-species comparisons are particularly relevant and instructive for understanding physiological pathways and de novo mutations in three contexts: in a purely mechanistic context, when differences in the regulation of a trait are the focus of investigation, when a physiological trait lacks a direct connection to fitness, and when physiological measures cannot easily be standardized among laboratories. In conclusion, phylogenetic comparative and two-species studies have different strengths and weaknesses and combining these complementary approaches will help integrating biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Goymann
- Department of Behavioural Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany
| | - Hubert Schwabl
- School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Åkesson S, Ilieva M, Bianco G. Flexibility and Control of Circadian Activity, Migratory Restlessness and Fueling in Two Songbird Migrants. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.666176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile songbirds rely on an endogenous program, encoding direction, distance, fueling, and timing of migration. Migratory distance is species-specific, expressed as a period of migratory restlessness, for which the length is correlated with distance, while fueling is modified to meet anticipated flight distances controlled by geomagnetic cues and amount of day-light available for foraging. How daylength affect onset and level of migratory activity and fueling decisions in wild birds have so far received limited attention. Here we study how photoperiod controls onset, level and extent of autumn migratory activity and fueling in juvenile diurnally migrating dunnocks, and nocturnally migrating European robins by experimentally increasing daylength. For both species, we kept a control group indoors at the location of capture in southern Sweden exposed to the natural photoperiod, and an experimental group with increased and advanced photoperiod by 2 h in the morning. Dunnocks initiated migratory activity at sunrise (or artificial sunrise) in both groups, demonstrating a highly responsive and flexible component for the onset of migration triggered by light. Experimental robins anticipated the end of nocturnal migratory activity predicting the earlier sunrise immediately after the time-shift and expressed this behavior already under darkness, supporting a fast-resetting mechanism to the new diel period. Timing of end of morning activity was not affected by the earlier sunrise in both species, suggesting a fixed endogenous control that persisted throughout the 13-day study period. Experimental dunnocks expressed higher overall activity and lower fuel loads than controls, while robins did not change their overall activity and fuel load in response to the shifted and increased photoperiod. These results reveal important adaptations for circadian timekeeping including both a flexible onset open to fast modifications and a more rigid end, with differential effects by the treatment on migratory activity and fueling in the two species.
Collapse
|
11
|
Xue H, Xu J, Wu M, Chen L, Xu L. Identification and sequence analysis of prolactin receptor and its differential expression profile at various developmental stages in striped hamsters. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 54:e10274. [PMID: 33729390 PMCID: PMC7959167 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x202010274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) plays critical roles in regulation of biological functions with the binding of specific prolactin receptor (PRLR). Revealing the expression patterns of PRLR at different developmental stages is beneficial to better understand the role of PRL and its mechanism of action in striped hamsters. In this study, the cDNA sequence of PRLR (2866-base-pairs) was harvested from the pituitary of mature female striped hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) that contains an 834-base-pair 5′-untranslated region (1-834 bp), a 1848-base-pair open reading frame (835-2682 bp), and a 184-base-pair 3′-untranslated region (2683-2866). The 1848-base-pair open reading frame encodes a mature prolactin-binding protein of 592 amino acids. In the mature PRLR, two prolactin-binding motifs, 12 cysteines, and five potential Asn-linked glycosylation sites were detected. Our results showed that the PRLR mRNA quantity in the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, or testis was developmental-stage-dependent, with the highest level at sub-adult stage and the lowest level at old stage. We also found that PRLR mRNAs were highest in pituitary, medium level in hypothalamus, and lowest in ovaries or testis. PRLR mRNAs were significantly higher in males than in females, except in the hypothalamus and pituitary from 7-week-old striped hamsters. Moreover, the PRLR mRNAs in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovaries or testis were positively correlated with the expression levels of GnRH in the hypothalamus. These results indicated that the PRLR has conserved domain in striped hamster, but also possesses specific character. PRLR has multiple biological functions including positively regulating reproduction in the striped hamster.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiliang Xue
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Jinhui Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Ming Wu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Laixiang Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, Qufu, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ryzhanovskiy VN, Gilev AV. Hierarchy of Factors that Determine the Timing of the Arrival of Passeriformes in the Ob Forested Tundra. BIOL BULL+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359020080117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
13
|
McWilliams S, Pierce B, Wittenzellner A, Langlois L, Engel S, Speakman JR, Fatica O, DeMoranville K, Goymann W, Trost L, Bryla A, Dzialo M, Sadowska E, Bauchinger U. The energy savings-oxidative cost trade-off for migratory birds during endurance flight. eLife 2020; 9:60626. [PMID: 33306947 PMCID: PMC7733536 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Elite human and animal athletes must acquire the fuels necessary for extreme feats, but also contend with the oxidative damage associated with peak metabolic performance. Here, we show that a migratory bird with fuel stores composed of more omega-6 polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) expended 11% less energy during long-duration (6 hr) flights with no change in oxidative costs; however, this short-term energy savings came at the long-term cost of higher oxidative damage in the omega-6 PUFA-fed birds. Given that fatty acids are primary fuels, key signaling molecules, the building blocks of cell membranes, and that oxidative damage has long-term consequences for health and ageing, the energy savings-oxidative cost trade-off demonstrated here may be fundamentally important for a wide diversity of organisms on earth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott McWilliams
- Department of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, United States
| | - Barbara Pierce
- Department of Biology, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, United States
| | | | - Lillie Langlois
- Department of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, United States
| | - Sophia Engel
- Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Starnberg, Germany
| | - John R Speakman
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Olivia Fatica
- Department of Biology, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, United States
| | - Kristen DeMoranville
- Department of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, United States
| | | | - Lisa Trost
- Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Amadeusz Bryla
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Dzialo
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Edyta Sadowska
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland.,Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Ulf Bauchinger
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS, Warszawa, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sockman KW, Hurlbert AH. How the effects of latitude on daylight availability may have influenced the evolution of migration and photoperiodism. Funct Ecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Keith W. Sockman
- Department of Biology University of North Carolina Chapel Hill NC USA
| | - Allen H. Hurlbert
- Department of Biology University of North Carolina Chapel Hill NC USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
|
16
|
Battley PF, Conklin JR, Parody-Merino ÁM, Langlands PA, Southey I, Burns T, Melville DS, Schuckard R, Riegen AC, Potter MA. Interacting Roles of Breeding Geography and Early-Life Settlement in Godwit Migration Timing. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
17
|
Parody-Merino ÁM, Battley PF, Conklin JR, Fidler AE. No evidence for an association between Clock gene allelic variation and migration timing in a long-distance migratory shorebird (Limosa lapponica baueri). Oecologia 2019; 191:843-859. [PMID: 31659437 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-019-04524-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The gene Clock is a key part of the Core Circadian Oscillator, and the length of the polyglutamine (poly-Q) repeat sequence in Clock (ClkpolyQcds) has been proposed to be associated with the timing of annual cycle events in birds. We tested whether variation in ClkpolyQcds corresponds to variation in migration timing in the bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica baueri), a species in which individuals show strong annual consistency in their migration timing despite the New Zealand population migrating across a 5-week period. We describe allelic variation of the ClkpolyQcds in 135 godwits over-wintering in New Zealand (N.Z.) and investigate whether polymorphism in this region is associated with northward migration timing (chronophenotype) from N.Z. or (for 32 birds tracked by geolocator) after the primary stopover in Asia. Six Clock alleles were detected (Q7‒Q12) and there was substantial variation between individuals (heterozygosity of 0.79). There was no association between ClkpolyQcds polymorphism and migration timing from N.Z. The length of the shorter Clock allele was related to migration timing from Asia, though this relationship arose largely from just a few northern-breeding birds with longer alleles. Other studies show no consistent associations between ClkpolyQcds and migration timing in birds, although Clock may be associated with breeding latitude in some species (as an adaptation to photoperiodic regime). Apparent relationships with migration timing could reflect latitude-related variation in migration timing, rather than Clock directly affecting migration timing. On current evidence, ClkpolyQcds is not a strong candidate for driving migration timing in migratory birds generally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ángela M Parody-Merino
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Phil F Battley
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Jesse R Conklin
- Conservation Ecology Group, University of Groningen, 9700 AB, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew E Fidler
- Institute of Marine Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Evolutionary Response to Climate Change in Migratory Pied Flycatchers. Curr Biol 2019; 29:3714-3719.e4. [PMID: 31668621 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.08.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Climate change is rapidly advancing spring phenology [1-3] but at different rates in different species [1, 4]. Whether these advances are solely driven by phenotypic plasticity [2, 5] or also involve evolution is hotly debated (e.g., [5-7]). In some species, including avian long-distance migrants, plastic responses to early springs may be constrained by inherited circannual timing programs [8, 9], making evolutionary adjustment the only viable mechanism for keeping pace with shifting phenology [5, 10]. This constraint may be contributing to population declines in migratory species [5, 10-12]. To test whether a migrant's timing program has evolved [10, 12], we replicated an experimental study of the annual cycle of long-distance migratory pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) after 21 years of warming. Flycatchers are a model for studying constrained ecological responses to climate change [6, 10, 12, 13]. We show that the phase of the flycatcher circannual clock controlling spring moult, migration, and reproductive timing advanced by 9 days. A nearby wild population mirrored these changes, concurrently advancing egg-laying by 11 days. Furthermore, the time window during which wild flycatcher reproductive timing was most sensitive to ambient temperature advanced by 0.8 days year-1. These results support a role of phenotypic evolution [14] in changing spring phenology [15, 16]. We suggest that the timing programs of long-distance migratory birds may have greater adaptive potential than previously thought, leaving some scope for evolutionary rescue in a changing climate.
Collapse
|
19
|
Ilieva M, Bianco G, Åkesson S. Effect of geomagnetic field on migratory activity in a diurnal passerine migrant, the dunnock, Prunella modularis. Anim Behav 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
20
|
Sokolovskis K, Bianco G, Willemoes M, Solovyeva D, Bensch S, Åkesson S. Ten grams and 13,000 km on the wing - route choice in willow warblers Phylloscopus trochilus yakutensis migrating from Far East Russia to East Africa. MOVEMENT ECOLOGY 2018; 6:20. [PMID: 30349724 PMCID: PMC6191995 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-018-0138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-latitude bird migration has evolved after the last glaciation, in less than 10,000-15,000 years. Migrating songbirds rely on an endogenous migratory program, encoding timing, fueling, and routes, but it is still unknown which compass mechanism they use on migration. We used geolocators to track the migration of willow warblers (Phylloscopus trochilus yakutensis) from their eastern part of the range in Russia to wintering areas in sub-Saharan Africa. Our aim was to investigate if the autumn migration route can be explained by a simple compass mechanism, based on celestial or geomagnetic information, or whether migration is undertaken as a sequence of differential migratory paths possibly involving a map sense. We compared the recorded migratory routes for our tracked birds with simulated routes obtained from different compass mechanisms. RESULTS The three tracked males were very similar in the routes they took to their final wintering sites in southern Tanzania or northern Mozambique, in their use of stopover sites and in the overall timing of migration. None of the tested compass mechanisms could explain the birds' routes to the first stopover area in southwest Asia or to the destination in Southeast Africa without modifications. Our compass mechanism simulations suggest that the simplest scenarios congruent with the observed routes are based on either an inclination or a sun compass, assuming two sequential steps. CONCLUSIONS The birds may follow a magnetoclinic route coinciding closely with the tracks by first moving west, i.e. closer to the goal, and thereafter follow a constant apparent angle of inclination to the stopover site. An alternative would be to use the sun compass, but with time-adjustments along the initial part of the migration to the first stopover, and thereafter depart along a new course to the winter destination. A combination of the two mechanisms cannot be ruled out, but needs to be confirmed in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristaps Sokolovskis
- Department of Biology, Center for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
- Department of Biology, Molecular Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
| | - Giuseppe Bianco
- Department of Biology, Center for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
| | - Mikkel Willemoes
- Department of Biology, Center for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
- Department of Biology, Molecular Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
| | - Diana Solovyeva
- Institute of Biological Problems in the North, Magadan, Russia
| | - Staffan Bensch
- Department of Biology, Center for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
- Department of Biology, Molecular Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
| | - Susanne Åkesson
- Department of Biology, Center for Animal Movement Research, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
- Department of Biology, Evolutionary Ecology Unit, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62 Lund, SE Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mishra I, Agarwal N, Rani S, Kumar V. Scotostimulation of reproductive neural pathways and gonadal maturation are not correlated with hypothalamic expression of deiodinases in subtropical spotted munia. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12627. [PMID: 29908087 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Circannual rhythm regulates the annual timing of reproduction in spotted munia, with sex differences in its relationship with the external photoperiod environment. Interestingly, munia show an atypical photosensitivity and exhibit gonadal maturation when acutely exposed to an unnatural short photoperiod (eg 3 hours of light per day; ie a long scotoperiod). The proximate mechanisms regulating scotoperiod-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) activation are unclear. Because thyroid hormone signalling plays a central role in photoperiodic induction, we hypothesised the involvement of similar mechanism, comprising alterations in hypothalamic deiodinases, under long scotoperiod-induced HPG activation. To test this, several endpoints of cellular and molecular correlates were assayed in male and female munias after 1 and 4 weeks of exposure to an 3:21 hour light/dark cycle (3L:21D), with controls on a 21:3 hour light/dark cycle (21L:3D). We measured the hypothalamic expression of mRNA and protein of light-sensitive (neuropsin, OPN5) and reproductive (vasoactive intestinal peptide [VIP], neuropeptide Y [NPY], gonadotrophin-releasing hormone [GnRH], gonadotrophin-inhibiting hormone [GnIH]) neuropeptides by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry, respectively. In addition, we also measured mRNA expression of types 2 (DIO2) and 3 (DIO3) deiodinases that regulate triiodothyronine-mediated GnRH release and gonadal maturation in photoperiodic species. The quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry results were consistent. Higher OPN5 levels under 21L:3D than under 3L:21D suggested its role in sensing the length of the light period. Similarly, low VIP and high NPY expression under 3L:21D than under 21L:3D were consistent with their roles as cellular correlates of photic and nonphotic environment, respectively. High GnRH-I/low GnIH levels and gonadal recrudescence under 3L:21D, and an inverse pattern under 21L:3D, confirmed the scotostimulation of HPG axis in spotted munia. However, DIO2 and DIO3 mRNA levels did not differ between 2 scotoperiods, in contrast to their reciprocal expression pattern found during long-day photostimulation. We demonstrate for the first time sex-dependent scotostimulation of reproductive neural pathways and suggest the involvement of molecules other than hypothalamic deiodinases in the regulation of gonad development cycle in 'nonphotoperiodic' seasonally breeding vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Neha Agarwal
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Karagicheva J, Rakhimberdiev E, Saveliev A, Piersma T. Annual chronotypes functionally link life histories and life cycles in birds. Funct Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Karagicheva
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea ResearchDepartment of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University Texel The Netherlands
| | - Eldar Rakhimberdiev
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea ResearchDepartment of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University Texel The Netherlands
- Department of Vertebrate ZoologyBiological FacultyLomonosov Moscow State University Moscow Russian Federation
| | - Anatoly Saveliev
- Institute of Ecology and GeographyKazan Federal University Kazan Russian Federation
| | - Theunis Piersma
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea ResearchDepartment of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University Texel The Netherlands
- Conservation Ecology GroupGroningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES)University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Covino KM, Jawor JM, Morris SR, Moore FR. Sex-specific hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis sensitivity in migrating songbirds. Horm Behav 2018; 97:112-120. [PMID: 29128250 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In seasonally migratory species, the overlap between the migratory and breeding life history stages is a balance between the physiological and behavioral requirements of each stage. Previous studies investigating the degree to which songbirds prepare for breeding during spring migration have focused on either circulating hormone levels or direct measures of gonadal recrudescence. In this study, we evaluated the phenology of breeding preparation in a long-distance migratory songbird, the Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus), by assessing hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis sensitivity with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) bioassays throughout the migratory period. During spring migration both males and females had a significant response to GnRH injections as reflected in elevated testosterone levels. The magnitude of response to GnRH injections, Rpotential, in females stayed consistent throughout spring migration; however, Rpotential in males increased as the migratory season progressed. It is clear that at least some degree of endocrinological breeding development occurs either before or during spring migration in both sexes, however the phenology appears to be sex specific. In males this breeding development continues at a relatively steady pace throughout the migratory period while in females, relatively little endocrine breeding development occurs during migration. These sex-specific differences in the phenology of the endocrine breeding development warrant future investigations for both male and female songbirds. Moreover, research focused on how physiological breeding development is balanced with the expression of migratory traits in long-distance songbird migrants is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Covino
- Biology Department, Canisius College, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA; Shoals Marine Laboratory, 102 Chase Ocean Engineering Lab, 24 Colovos Rd, Durham, NH 03824, USA.
| | - Jodie M Jawor
- Biology Department, Canisius College, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208, USA
| | - Sara R Morris
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA; Shoals Marine Laboratory, 102 Chase Ocean Engineering Lab, 24 Colovos Rd, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Frank R Moore
- Biology Department, Canisius College, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Åkesson S, Ilieva M, Karagicheva J, Rakhimberdiev E, Tomotani B, Helm B. Timing avian long-distance migration: from internal clock mechanisms to global flights. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 372:20160252. [PMID: 28993496 PMCID: PMC5647279 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Migratory birds regularly perform impressive long-distance flights, which are timed relative to the anticipated environmental resources at destination areas that can be several thousand kilometres away. Timely migration requires diverse strategies and adaptations that involve an intricate interplay between internal clock mechanisms and environmental conditions across the annual cycle. Here we review what challenges birds face during long migrations to keep track of time as they exploit geographically distant resources that may vary in availability and predictability, and summarize the clock mechanisms that enable them to succeed. We examine the following challenges: departing in time for spring and autumn migration, in anticipation of future environmental conditions; using clocks on the move, for example for orientation, navigation and stopover; strategies of adhering to, or adjusting, the time programme while fitting their activities into an annual cycle; and keeping pace with a world of rapidly changing environments. We then elaborate these themes by case studies representing long-distance migrating birds with different annual movement patterns and associated adaptations of their circannual programmes. We discuss the current knowledge on how endogenous migration programmes interact with external information across the annual cycle, how components of annual cycle programmes encode topography and range expansions, and how fitness may be affected when mismatches between timing and environmental conditions occur. Lastly, we outline open questions and propose future research directions.This article is part of the themed issue 'Wild clocks: integrating chronobiology and ecology to understand timekeeping in free-living animals'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Åkesson
- Centre for Animal Movement Research, Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
| | - Mihaela Ilieva
- Centre for Animal Movement Research, Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
- Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria
| | - Julia Karagicheva
- Department of Coastal Systems, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel, The Netherlands
| | - Eldar Rakhimberdiev
- Department of Coastal Systems, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research and Utrecht University, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel, The Netherlands
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Barbara Tomotani
- Netherlands Institute of Ecology, 6700 AB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Helm
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G128QQ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Helm B, Visser ME, Schwartz W, Kronfeld-Schor N, Gerkema M, Piersma T, Bloch G. Two sides of a coin: ecological and chronobiological perspectives of timing in the wild. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 372:20160246. [PMID: 28993490 PMCID: PMC5647273 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Most processes within organisms, and most interactions between organisms and their environment, have distinct time profiles. The temporal coordination of such processes is crucial across levels of biological organization, but disciplines differ widely in their approaches to study timing. Such differences are accentuated between ecologists, who are centrally concerned with a holistic view of an organism in relation to its external environment, and chronobiologists, who emphasize internal timekeeping within an organism and the mechanisms of its adjustment to the environment. We argue that ecological and chronobiological perspectives are complementary, and that studies at the intersection will enable both fields to jointly overcome obstacles that currently hinder progress. However, to achieve this integration, we first have to cross some conceptual barriers, clarifying prohibitively inaccessible terminologies. We critically assess main assumptions and concepts in either field, as well as their common interests. Both approaches intersect in their need to understand the extent and regulation of temporal plasticity, and in the concept of 'chronotype', i.e. the characteristic temporal properties of individuals which are the targets of natural and sexual selection. We then highlight promising developments, point out open questions, acknowledge difficulties and propose directions for further integration of ecological and chronobiological perspectives through Wild Clock research.This article is part of the themed issue 'Wild Clocks: integrating chronobiology and ecology to understand timekeeping in free-living animals'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Helm
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building, Glasgow G128QQ, UK
| | - Marcel E Visser
- Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), PO 50, 6700 AB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - William Schwartz
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | - Menno Gerkema
- Chronobiology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Theunis Piersma
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel, The Netherlands
- Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Guy Bloch
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, The A. Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Agarwal N, Mishra I, Komal R, Rani S, Kumar V. Circannual testis and moult cycles persist under photoperiods that disrupt circadian activity and clock gene cycles in spotted munia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 220:4162-4168. [PMID: 28916681 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.167809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether circannual rhythms underlying annual testis maturation and moult cycles are independent of duration and frequency of the light period and circadian clock control in non-photoperiodic spotted munia. Birds were subjected to an aberrant light-dark (LD) cycle (3.5 h L:3.5 h D; T7, where T is the period length of the LD cycle) and continuous light (LL, 24 h L:0 h D), with controls on 12 h L:12 h D (T24, 24 h LD cycle). We measured the behavioural activity pattern of the birds and 24 h mRNA oscillations of circadian clock genes (bmal1, clock, per2, cry1, cry2) in the hypothalamus, the putative site of seasonal timing. Diurnal munia were rhythmic in behaviour with the period of the activity-rest cycle matched to T7 and T24, and became behaviourally arrhythmic with activity scattered throughout 24 h under LL. Similarly, exposure to 3.5 h L:3.5 h D and LL caused arrhythmicity in 24 h clock gene expression, suggesting disruption of internal circadian timing at the transcriptional level; a significant rhythm was found under 12 h L:12 h D. During an exposure of 80 weeks, munia showed two to three cycles of testis maturation and wing primaries moult under all photoperiods, although with a longer period under 12L:12D. Thus, the frequency of light period under 3.5 h L:3.5 h D or LL disrupted circadian clock gene cycles, but did not affect the generation of circannual testis and moult cycles. We conclude that the prevailing light environment and hypothalamic circadian gene cycles do not exert direct control on the timing of the annual reproductive cycle in spotted munia, suggesting independent generation of the circadian and circannual rhythms in seasonally breeding species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neha Agarwal
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India.,Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Ila Mishra
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| | - Ruchi Komal
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Sangeeta Rani
- Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- IndoUS Center for Biological Timing, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110 007, India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Mishra I, Kumar V. Circadian basis of seasonal timing in higher vertebrates. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2017.1345447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ila Mishra
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Stevenson TJ, Kumar V. Neural control of daily and seasonal timing of songbird migration. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2017; 203:399-409. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-017-1193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
29
|
Åkesson S, Bianco G. Route simulations, compass mechanisms and long-distance migration flights in birds. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2017; 203:475-490. [PMID: 28500441 PMCID: PMC5522512 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-017-1171-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bird migration has fascinated humans for centuries and routes crossing the globe are now starting to be revealed by advanced tracking technology. A central question is what compass mechanism, celestial or geomagnetic, is activated during these long flights. Different approaches based on the geometry of flight routes across the globe and route simulations based on predictions from compass mechanisms with or without including the effect of winds have been used to try to answer this question with varying results. A major focus has been use of orthodromic (great circle) and loxodromic (rhumbline) routes using celestial information, while geomagnetic information has been proposed for both a magnetic loxodromic route and a magnetoclinic route. Here, we review previous results and evaluate if one or several alternative compass mechanisms can explain migration routes in birds. We found that most cases could be explained by magnetoclinic routes (up to 73% of the cases), while the sun compas s could explain only 50%. Both magnetic and geographic loxodromes could explain <25% of the routes. The magnetoclinic route functioned across latitudes (1°S-74°N), while the sun compass only worked in the high Arctic (61-69°N). We discuss the results with respect to orientation challenges and availability of orientation cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Åkesson
- Centre for Animal Movement Research, Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Giuseppe Bianco
- Centre for Animal Movement Research, Department of Biology, Lund University, Ecology Building, 223 62, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
|
31
|
Van Doren BM, Campagna L, Helm B, Illera JC, Lovette IJ, Liedvogel M. Correlated patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation across an avian family. Mol Ecol 2017; 26:3982-3997. [PMID: 28256062 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Comparative studies of closely related taxa can provide insights into the evolutionary forces that shape genome evolution and the prevalence of convergent molecular evolution. We investigated patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation in stonechats (genus Saxicola), a widely distributed avian species complex with phenotypic variation in plumage, morphology and migratory behaviour, to ask whether similar genomic regions have become differentiated in independent, but closely related, taxa. We used whole-genome pooled sequencing of 262 individuals from five taxa and found that levels of genetic diversity and divergence are strongly correlated among different stonechat taxa. We then asked whether these patterns remain correlated at deeper evolutionary scales and found that homologous genomic regions have become differentiated in stonechats and the closely related Ficedula flycatchers. Such correlation across a range of evolutionary divergence and among phylogenetically independent comparisons suggests that similar processes may be driving the differentiation of these independently evolving lineages, which in turn may be the result of intrinsic properties of particular genomic regions (e.g. areas of low recombination). Consequently, studies employing genome scans to search for areas important for reproductive isolation or adaptation should account for corresponding regions of differentiation, as these regions may not necessarily represent speciation islands or evidence of local adaptation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Van Doren
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.,Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Leonardo Campagna
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.,Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Barbara Helm
- Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, Institute of Biodiversity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Juan Carlos Illera
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University, Campus of Mieres, Research Building, 5th Floor, c/ Gonzalo Gutiérrez Quirós s/n, 33600, Mieres, Asturias, Spain
| | - Irby J Lovette
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.,Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Miriam Liedvogel
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology, AG Behavioural Genomics, August-Thienemann-Str. 2, 24306, Plön, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Stevenson TJ, Visser ME, Arnold W, Barrett P, Biello S, Dawson A, Denlinger DL, Dominoni D, Ebling FJ, Elton S, Evans N, Ferguson HM, Foster RG, Hau M, Haydon DT, Hazlerigg DG, Heideman P, Hopcraft JGC, Jonsson NN, Kronfeld-Schor N, Kumar V, Lincoln GA, MacLeod R, Martin SAM, Martinez-Bakker M, Nelson RJ, Reed T, Robinson JE, Rock D, Schwartz WJ, Steffan-Dewenter I, Tauber E, Thackeray SJ, Umstatter C, Yoshimura T, Helm B. Disrupted seasonal biology impacts health, food security and ecosystems. Proc Biol Sci 2016; 282:20151453. [PMID: 26468242 PMCID: PMC4633868 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.1453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The rhythm of life on earth is shaped by seasonal changes in the environment. Plants and animals show profound annual cycles in physiology, health, morphology, behaviour and demography in response to environmental cues. Seasonal biology impacts ecosystems and agriculture, with consequences for humans and biodiversity. Human populations show robust annual rhythms in health and well-being, and the birth month can have lasting effects that persist throughout life. This review emphasizes the need for a better understanding of seasonal biology against the backdrop of its rapidly progressing disruption through climate change, human lifestyles and other anthropogenic impact. Climate change is modifying annual rhythms to which numerous organisms have adapted, with potential consequences for industries relating to health, ecosystems and food security. Disconcertingly, human lifestyles under artificial conditions of eternal summer provide the most extreme example for disconnect from natural seasons, making humans vulnerable to increased morbidity and mortality. In this review, we introduce scenarios of seasonal disruption, highlight key aspects of seasonal biology and summarize from biomedical, anthropological, veterinary, agricultural and environmental perspectives the recent evidence for seasonal desynchronization between environmental factors and internal rhythms. Because annual rhythms are pervasive across biological systems, they provide a common framework for trans-disciplinary research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T J Stevenson
- Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - M E Visser
- Department of Animal Ecology, Nederlands Instituut voor Ecologie, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - W Arnold
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - P Barrett
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - S Biello
- School of Psychology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - A Dawson
- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Penicuik, Midlothian, UK
| | - D L Denlinger
- Department of Entomology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - D Dominoni
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - F J Ebling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - S Elton
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - N Evans
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - H M Ferguson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - R G Foster
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - M Hau
- Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Seewiesen, Germany
| | - D T Haydon
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - D G Hazlerigg
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, University of Tromso, Tromso, Norway
| | - P Heideman
- Department of Biology, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - J G C Hopcraft
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - N N Jonsson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - V Kumar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - G A Lincoln
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - R MacLeod
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - S A M Martin
- Department of Animal Ecology, Nederlands Instituut voor Ecologie, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Martinez-Bakker
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - R J Nelson
- Department of Psychology, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T Reed
- Aquaculture and Fisheries Development Centre, University of College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - J E Robinson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - D Rock
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - W J Schwartz
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - I Steffan-Dewenter
- Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - E Tauber
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - S J Thackeray
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - C Umstatter
- Agroscope, Tanikon, CH-8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - T Yoshimura
- Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, University of Nagoya, Nagoya, Japan
| | - B Helm
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Karagicheva J, Rakhimberdiev E, Dekinga A, Brugge M, Koolhaas A, Ten Horn J, Piersma T. Seasonal Time Keeping in a Long-Distance Migrating Shorebird. J Biol Rhythms 2016; 31:509-21. [PMID: 27466352 DOI: 10.1177/0748730416655929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Because of the complications in achieving the necessary long-term observations and experiments, the nature and adaptive value of seasonal time-keeping mechanisms in long-lived organisms remain understudied. Here we present the results of a 20-year-long study of the repeated seasonal changes in body mass, plumage state, and primary molt of 45 captive red knots Calidris canutus islandica, a High Arctic breeding shorebird that spends the nonbreeding season in temperate coastal areas. Birds kept outdoors and experiencing the natural photoperiod of the nonbreeding area maintained sequences of life-cycle stages, roughly following the timing in nature. For 6 to 8 years, 14 of these birds were exposed to unvarying ambient temperature (12 °C) and photoperiodic conditions (12:12 LD). Under these conditions, for at least 5 years they expressed free-running circannual cycles of body mass, plumage state, and wing molt. The circannual cycles of the free-running traits gradually became longer than 12 months, but at different rates. The prebreeding events (onset and offset of prealternate molt and the onset of spring body mass increase) occurred at the same time of the year as in the wild population for 1 or several cycles. As a result, after 4 years in 12:12 LD, the circannual cycles of prealternate plumage state had drifted less than the cycles of prebasic plumage state and wing molt. As the onset of body mass gain drifted less than the offset, the period of high body mass became longer under unvarying conditions. We see these differences between the prebreeding and postbreeding life-cycle stages as evidence for adaptive seasonal time keeping in red knots: the life-cycle stages linked to the initiation of reproduction rely mostly on endogenous oscillators, whereas the later stages rather respond to environmental conditions. Postbreeding stages are also prone to carryover effects from the earlier stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Karagicheva
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Eldar Rakhimberdiev
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anne Dekinga
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Brugge
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Anita Koolhaas
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Job Ten Horn
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands
| | - Theunis Piersma
- NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems and Utrecht University, Den Burg, Texel, the Netherlands Conservation Ecology Group, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES), University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Sanz-Aguilar A, Carrete M, Edelaar P, Potti J, Tella JL. The empty temporal niche: breeding phenology differs between coexisting native and invasive birds. Biol Invasions 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-015-0952-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
35
|
Malik S, Singh S, Rani S, Kumar V. Life at a different pace: annual itineraries are conserved in seasonal songbirds. J Biosci 2015; 39:485-91. [PMID: 24845511 DOI: 10.1007/s12038-014-9440-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The duration of life history state (LHS) reflects the adaptive strategy a species has evolved to cope with a changing environment. Inhabitants at different latitudes may thus have significant differences in the rates of metabolic and physiological processes underlying LHSs. Birds, in order to maximize their fitness in the environment in which they live, seasonally switch from one LHS to another during the year. The present study investigated whether an annual itinerary of a species would determine its rate of reaction to inductive long days. We compared the photoinduced cycles of changes in body mass and testes, as indices of migratory and reproductive LHSs, between two long day breeding species, the migratory redheaded bunting and non-migratory Indian weaverbird. Changes in body mass and testis size were measured in photosensitive buntings and weaverbirds (n = 7 each) on short days (LD 8:16) subjected first to 0.5 h weekly light increments until the light period was 13 h per day, and then maintained on LD 13:11 for another 32 weeks. A similar observation was recorded on a group of buntings (n = 14) and weaverbirds (n = 9) maintained on increasing natural day lengths (NDL; Lucknow, 26°55' N, 80°59' E) for 47 weeks. As predicted, the rates of induction of seasonal cycles under an identical inductive photoperiod were significantly faster in temperate buntings with five annual LHSs than in the subtropical weaverbirds with three annual LHSs. This suggests that annual itineraries of songbirds with which they may have evolved with at their breeding latitudes, determine their response to the external photoperiodic environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Malik
- DST IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythm Research, Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Mortega KG, Flinks H, Helm B. Behavioural response of a migratory songbird to geographic variation in song and morphology. Front Zool 2014; 11:85. [PMID: 25484906 PMCID: PMC4256809 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-014-0085-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sexually selected traits contribute substantially to evolutionary diversification, for example by promoting assortative mating. The contributing traits and their relevance for reproductive isolation differ between species. In birds, sexually selected acoustic and visual signals often undergo geographic divergence. Clines in these phenotypes may be used by both sexes in the context of sexual selection and territoriality. The ways conspecifics respond to geographic variation in phenotypes can give insights to possible behavioural barriers, but these may depend on migratory behaviour. We studied a migratory songbird, the Stonechat, and tested its responsiveness to geographic variation in male song and morphology. The traits are acquired differently, with possible implications for population divergence. Song can evolve quickly through cultural transmission, and thus may contribute more to the establishment of geographic variation than inherited morphological traits. We first quantified the diversity of song traits from different populations. We then tested the responses of free-living Stonechats of both sexes to male phenotype with playbacks and decoys, representing local and foreign stimuli derived from a range of distances from the local population. Results Both sexes discriminated consistently between stimuli from different populations, responding more strongly to acoustic and morphological traits of local than foreign stimuli. Time to approach increased, and time spent close to the stimuli and number of tail flips decreased consistently with geographic distance of the stimulus from the local population. Discriminatory response behaviour was more consistent for acoustic than for morphological traits. Song traits of the local population differed significantly from those of other populations. Conclusions Evaluating an individual’s perception of geographic variation in sexually selected traits is a crucial first step for understanding reproductive isolation mechanisms. We have demonstrated that in both sexes of Stonechats the responsiveness to acoustic and visual signals decreased with increasing geographic distance of stimulus origin. These findings confirm consistent, fine discrimination for both learned song and inherited morphological traits in these migratory birds. Maintenance or further divergence in phenotypic traits could lead to assortative mating, reproductive isolation, and potentially speciation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12983-014-0085-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim G Mortega
- Department of Migration and Immuno-Ecology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, 78315 Radolfzell, Germany ; Department of Ornithology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany ; Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Barbara Helm
- Department of Ornithology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany ; Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Singh A, Kankariya S, Pati AK, Parganiha A. Day length and evening temperature predict circannual variation in activity duration of the colony of the Indian cliff swallow,Hirundo fluvicola. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2014.948301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
38
|
Villavicencio CP, Blas J, Goymann W. The number of life-history stages does not influence the androgen responsiveness to male-male interactions: sedentary and migratory black redstarts (Phoenicurus ochruros) do not elevate testosterone in response to simulated territorial intrusions. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 205:159-65. [PMID: 24792820 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
High plasma levels of testosterone at the beginning of the breeding season adjust male physiology for mating and promote territorial behavior in birds. Conversely intra-sexual competition may elicit a temporary increase in circulating testosterone. Male black redstarts (Phoenicurus ochruros) from migratory populations show the expected increase in baseline testosterone during early breeding, but circulating testosterone levels do not change in response to male-male interactions. Because sedentary populations express fewer life-history stages they may be more flexible in timing of life-history stages and more responsive to environmental modulation of hormone concentrations. Therefore, we tested whether the androgen responsiveness to male-male interactions differs between migratory (6 life-history stages) and sedentary black redstarts (3 life-history stages) during early breeding, predicting that in contrast to migratory birds, sedentary birds would modulate testosterone in response to simulated territorial intrusions (STI). In contrast to our prediction, sedentary males did not modulate post-capture testosterone levels in response to simulated territorial intrusions. Males of both populations increased testosterone after an injection of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), demonstrating that they were capable of increasing testosterone. Interestingly, in sedentary males the GnRH injection elicited a higher testosterone response in STI males than in control males. The two populations did not differ in their behavioral response to the STIs, except that sedentary males spent less time close to the decoy. In combination with previous data from black redstarts and other socially monogamous and biparental birds our current study adds to the growing evidence that current theory regarding hormone-behavior relationship needs to be refined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C P Villavicencio
- Max-Planck-Institut für Ornithologie, Eberhard-Gwinner-Str. 6a, D-82319 Seewiesen, Germany.
| | - J Blas
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana CSIC, Avenida de Américo Vespucio s/n, E-41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - W Goymann
- Max-Planck-Institut für Ornithologie, Eberhard-Gwinner-Str. 6a, D-82319 Seewiesen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Versteegh MA, Helm B, Kleynhans EJ, Gwinner E, Tieleman BI. Genetic and phenotypically flexible components of seasonal variation in immune function. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 217:1510-8. [PMID: 24436383 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.097105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Animals cope with seasonal variation in environmental factors by adjustments of physiology and life history. When seasonal variation is partly predictable, such adjustments can be based on a genetic component or be phenotypically flexible. Animals have to allocate limited resources over different demands, including immune function. Accordingly, immune traits could change seasonally, and such changes could have a genetic component that differs between environments. We tested this hypothesis in genotypically distinct groups of a widespread songbird, the stonechat (Saxicola torquata). We compared variation in immunity during 1 year in long-distance migrants, short-distance migrants, tropical residents and hybrids in a common garden environment. Additionally, we investigated phenotypically flexible responses to temperature by applying different temperature regimes to one group. We assessed constitutive immunity by measuring hemagglutination, hemolysis, haptoglobin and bactericidal ability against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Genotypic groups differed in patterns of variation of all measured immune indices except haptoglobin. Hybrids differed from, but were rarely intermediate to, parental subspecies. Temperature treatment only influenced patterns of hemolysis and bactericidal ability against E. coli. We conclude that seasonal variation in constitutive immunity has a genetic component, that heredity does not follow simple Mendelian rules, and that some immune measures are relatively rigid while others are more flexible. Furthermore, our results support the idea that seasonal variability in constitutive immunity is associated with variability in environment and annual-cycle demands. This study stresses the importance of considering seasonal variation in immune function in relation to the ecology and life history of the organism of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Versteegh
- Animal Ecology Group, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies, University of Groningen, PO Box 11103, 9700 CC, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Elevated testosterone advances onset of migratory restlessness in a nearctic-neotropical landbird. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-013-1671-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
41
|
Budki P, Malik S, Rani S, Kumar V. Circadian rhythms are not involved in the regulation of circannual reproductive cycles in a sub-tropical bird, the spotted munia. J Exp Biol 2014; 217:2569-79. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.100651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Circannual rhythms regulate seasonal reproduction in many vertebrates. The present study investigated if circannual reproductive phenotypes (rhythms in growth of gonads and molt) were generated independently of the circadian clocks in the subtropical non-photoperiodic spotted munia (Lonchura punctulata). Birds were subjected to light-dark (LD) cycles with identical light but varying dark hours, such that the period of LD cycle (T) equaled to 16-(12L:4D), 21-(12L:9D), 24-(12L:12D) and 27-(12L:15D) hours, or to continuous light (LL, 24L:0D) at ~18°C. During ~21-month exposure, munia underwent at least two cycles of gonadal development and molt; changes in body mass were not rhythmic. This was similar to the occurrence of annual cycles in reproduction and molt observed in wild birds. A greater asynchrony between circannual cycles of gonad and molt indicated their independent regulation. Females showed reproductive rhythms with similar circannual periods, whilst in males circannual periods measured between peak gonadal size was longer in T21 and T24 than in the T16 or T27. This suggested a sex-dependent timing of annual reproduction in the spotted munia. Also, food availability periods may not influence the circannual timing of reproduction, as shown by the results on the rhythm in gonadal growth and regression in munia under T-photocycles and LL that provided differential light (feeding) hours. Further, a short-term experiment revealed that activity-rest pattern in munia were synchronized with T-photocycles, but were arrhythmic under LL. We conclude that circadian rhythms are not involved in the timing of the annual reproductive cycle in the spotted munia.
Collapse
|
42
|
Trivedi AK, Rani S, Kumar V. Circadian adaptation to seasons: effects on activity behavior in subtropical House Sparrow,Passer domesticus. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2013.850888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
43
|
Rani S, Kumar V. Avian circannual systems: persistence and sex differences. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 190:61-7. [PMID: 23631901 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Birds show adaptation in their physiology and behavior to daily and seasonal periodicities in the environment. A circannual clock system gates seasonal events in birds to happen at the most appropriate time of the year, since a mistiming will delay the event until the arrival of the favorable time next year. The circannual clocks, the self-sustained endogenous system, are expressed under aperiodic conditions with a period close to 12months. In stonechats, it has been shown that circannual rhythms in testicular and molt cycles persist for 12years; this suggests that circannual clocks are functional throughout the life of an individual. Circannual rhythms are synchronized with both the photoperiodic and non-photoperiodic cues, and a synchronized circannual rhythm provides information on annual timing of the physiological event. The integration of rigid circannual timekeeping with the cyclic environment ensures phenotypic plasticity that is required for successful survival of a species in its habitat. There can be however sex differences in the circannual rhythm characteristics and in the relationship between circannual rhythms and external environment. In few cases that have been investigated, females appear playing a larger role in defining the breeding season in the year in relation to the environment. There is no evidence for the involvement of circadian clock in the generation of circannual rhythms. Therefore, future researches need to focus on finding molecular gears that possibly form the neuroendocrine loop and are translated into a seasonal event. Here, we briefly review limited information that is available on circannual rhythms and their relationship with the external environment from a few bird species, inhabiting tropical and temperate environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangeeta Rani
- Department of Zoology, DST-IRHPA Center for Excellence in Biological Rhythms Research, University of Lucknow, Lucknow 226 007, India.
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Helm B, Ben-Shlomo R, Sheriff MJ, Hut RA, Foster R, Barnes BM, Dominoni D. Annual rhythms that underlie phenology: biological time-keeping meets environmental change. Proc Biol Sci 2013; 280:20130016. [PMID: 23825201 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2013.0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonal recurrence of biological processes (phenology) and its relationship to environmental change is recognized as being of key scientific and public concern, but its current study largely overlooks the extent to which phenology is based on biological time-keeping mechanisms. We highlight the relevance of physiological and neurobiological regulation for organisms' responsiveness to environmental conditions. Focusing on avian and mammalian examples, we describe circannual rhythmicity of reproduction, migration and hibernation, and address responses of animals to photic and thermal conditions. Climate change and urbanization are used as urgent examples of anthropogenic influences that put biological timing systems under pressure. We furthermore propose that consideration of Homo sapiens as principally a 'seasonal animal' can inspire new perspectives for understanding medical and psychological problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Helm
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Matsuno T, Kawasaki Y, Numata H. Small geographic variation in photoperiodic entrainment of the circannual rhythm in the varied carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci. Zoolog Sci 2013; 30:304-10. [PMID: 23537241 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.30.304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The circannual pupation rhythm of Anthrenus verbasci is entrained to an environmental cycle by changes in photoperiod. Exposure of larvae reared under short-day conditions to long days induced a clear phase delay of the circannual rhythm. There was no notable difference in the initial phase or period of the circannual rhythm among four geographically distinct populations of A. verbasci in Japan: Takanabe (32.1°N), Osaka (34.7°N), Sendai (38.3°N), and Sapporo (43.1°N) populations. The range of photoperiodic changes effective for phase delay in the circannual pupation rhythm was compared among the four populations. Although larvae did not show a typical threshold response, but responded quantitatively to the photophase duration in intermediate conditions, the critical daylengths were calculated as those under which the pupation was delayed by 50%: 12.8 h in the Takanabe population, 13.2 h in the Osaka population, and 13.6 h in the Sendai and Sapporo populations. Thus, the critical daylength for entrainment of the circannual rhythm in A. verbasci was correlated to the habitat latitude, but the differences among the populations were much smaller than those reported in photoperiodism for induction of diapause in various insects. Consequently, the difference in the pupation time among the four geographic populations was very small under the natural photoperiod in Osaka at 20°C, and absent under the natural photoperiod and temperature in Osaka. These results suggest that A. verbasci survives and successfully produces the next generation in different geographic regions without changing the parameters of the circannual rhythm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Matsuno
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Osaka 558-8585, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Versteegh MA, Schwabl I, Jaquier S, Tieleman BI. Do immunological, endocrine and metabolic traits fall on a single Pace-of-Life axis? Covariation and constraints among physiological systems. J Evol Biol 2012; 25:1864-76. [PMID: 22817634 DOI: 10.1111/j.1420-9101.2012.02574.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 06/19/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Variation in demographic and physiological attributes of life history is thought to fall on one single axis, a phenomenon termed the Pace-of-Life. A slow Pace-of-Life is characterized by low annual reproduction, long life span and low metabolic rate, a fast Pace-of-Life by the opposite characteristics. The existence of a single axis has been attributed to constraints among physiological mechanisms that are thought to restrict evolutionary potential. In that case, physiological traits should covary in the same fashion at the levels of individual organisms and species. We examined covariation at the levels of individual and subspecies in three physiological systems (metabolic, endocrine and immune) using four stonechat subspecies with distinct life-history strategies in a common-garden set-up. We measured basal metabolic rate, corticosterone as endocrine measure and six measures of constitutive immunity. Metabolic rate covaried with two indices of immunity at the individual level, and with corticosterone concentrations and one index of immunity at the subspecies level, but not with other measures. The different patterns of covariation among individuals and among subspecies demonstrate that links among physiological traits are loose and suggest that these traits can evolve independent of each other.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Versteegh
- Animal Ecology group, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Versteegh MA, Helm B, Gwinner E, Tieleman BI. Annual cycles of metabolic rate are genetically determined but can be shifted by phenotypic flexibility. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 215:3459-66. [PMID: 22771752 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.073445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Birds have adjusted their life history and physiological traits to the characteristics of the seasonally changing environments they inhabit. Annual cycles in physiology can result from phenotypic flexibility or from variation in its genetic basis. A key physiological trait that shows seasonal variation is basal metabolic rate (BMR). We studied genetic and phenotypic variation in the annual cycles of body mass, BMR and mass-specific BMR in three stonechat subspecies (Saxicola torquata) originating from environments that differ in seasonality, and in two hybrid lines. Birds were kept in a common garden set-up, under annually variable day length and at constant temperature. We also studied whether stonechats use the proximate environmental factor temperature as a cue for changes in metabolic rate, by keeping birds at two different temperature regimes. We found that the different subspecies kept in a common environment had different annual cycles of body mass, BMR (variance: Kazakh 4.12, European 1.31, Kenyans 1.25) and mass-specific BMR (variance: Kazakh 0.042, European 0.003, Kenyans 0.013). Annual variation in metabolic measures of hybrids was intermediate or similar to that of parental species. Temperature treatment did not affect the shape of the annual cycles of metabolic rate, but metabolic rate was higher in birds kept under the variable temperature regime. The distinct annual cycles in body mass and metabolic rate in stonechat subspecies kept in a common environment indicate different genetic backgrounds rather than merely a phenotypically flexible response to proximate environmental cues. Phenotypic effects of temperature are superimposed on this genetically orchestrated annual cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Versteegh
- Animal Ecology Group, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies, University of Groningen, 9700 CC, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Goymann W, Helm B, Jensen W, Schwabl I, Moore IT. A tropical bird can use the equatorial change in sunrise and sunset times to synchronize its circannual clock. Proc Biol Sci 2012; 279:3527-34. [PMID: 22648153 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2012.0743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
At higher latitudes, most organisms use the periodic changes in day length to time their annual life cycle. At the equator, changes in day length are minimal, and it is unknown which cues organisms use to synchronize their underlying circannual rhythms to environmental conditions. Here, we demonstrate that the African stonechat (Saxicola torquatus axillaris)-an equatorial songbird-can use subtle solar cues for the annual timing of postnuptial moult, a reliable marker of the circannual cycle. We compared four groups that were kept over more than 3 years: (i) a control group maintained under constant equatorial day length, (ii) a 12-month solar time group maintained under equatorial day length, but including a simulation of the annual periodic change in sunrise and sunset times (solar time), (iii) a 14-month solar time group similar to the previous group but with an extended solar time cycle and (iv) a group maintained under a European temperate photoperiod. Within all 3 years, 12-month solar time birds were significantly more synchronized than controls and 14-month solar time birds. Furthermore, the moult of 12-month solar time birds occurred during the same time of the year as that of free-living Kenyan conspecifics. Thus, our data indicate that stonechats may use the subtle periodic pattern of sunrise and sunset at the equator to synchronize their circannual clock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Goymann
- Max-Planck-Institut für Ornithologie, Abteilung für Verhaltensneurobiologie, Eberhard-Gwinner-Straße 6A, 82319 Seewiesen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Budki P, Rani S, Kumar V. Persistence of circannual rhythms under constant periodic and aperiodic light conditions: sex differences and relationship with the external environment. J Exp Biol 2012; 215:3774-85. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.065581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Summary
The timing and duration of gonadal phases in the year indicates that breeding cycles are regulated by endogenous mechanisms. The present study on tropical Spotted Munia (Lonchura punctulata) investigates whether such mechanisms are based on circannual rhythms, and whether circannual rhythms between sexes differ in their relationship with the light environment. Birds were subjected to 12 h light per day (12L:12D), alternate days of light and darkness (24L:24D, LL/DD) and continuous light (LL), with L= 22 lux and D = <1 lux, for 28 months (mo) at constant temperature (18±1°C). Groups kept on natural day lengths (NDL) served as controls. Measurement of body mass, gonads, and molts of the primary wing feathers and body plumage at regular intervals showed that birds underwent repeated cycles in gonads and molt, but not in the body mass. In NDL, gonadal phases in both sexes cycled with 12 mo periods. In other conditions, males cycled with similar periods of about 11 mo, but females cycled with relatively large period variations, about 10 to 13 mo. Gonadal recrudescence – regression phase was longer in males than in females and, in both sexes, in the second year as compared to the first year. The molt of wing primaries was more closely coupled to gonadal maturation in groups on NDL and 12L:12D than in groups on LL and LL/DD, but this relationship drifted apart in the second year. Body plumage molts were relatively more highly variable in both the frequency and pattern. It is suggested that annual breeding cycle in spotted munia is regulated by the self-sustained circannual rhythms, which probably interact with the annual photoperiodic cycle to synchronize breeding cycles to calendar year. Both sexes seem to have independent timing strategies, but females appear to share a greater role in defining the reproductive season in relation with the environment.
Collapse
|
50
|
Miyazaki Y, Nisimura T, Numata H. Circannual rhythm in the varied carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2012; 199:439-456. [PMID: 22877680 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-59427-3.00025-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although circannual rhythms controlling different physiological processes and various aspects of behavior have been reported in numerous organisms, our understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms is still quite limited. We examined the mechanisms controlling the circannual pupation rhythm of the varied carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci. This rhythm is self-sustainable, exhibits temperature compensation of the periodicity, and is entrainable to environmental changes. In addition, the circannual phase response curves to a photoperiod pulse display Type 0 or Type 1 resetting, depending on the duration of the pulse. Thus, we infer that this rhythm is derived from a self-sustaining biological oscillator with a period of about a year, that is, a circannual clock, analogous to the circadian clock. Further, a circadian clock appears to mediate photoperiodic time measurement for phase resetting of the circannual clock. Based on these results and previous research performed in other organisms, we discuss the general characteristics of the physiological mechanisms underpinning circannual rhythmicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Miyazaki
- Faculty of Clinical Education, Ashiya University, Hyogo, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|