1
|
Muller A, Morales-Montero P, Boss A, Hiltmann A, Castaneda-Alvarez C, Bhat AH, Arce CCM, Glauser G, Joyce SA, Clarke DJ, Machado RAR. Bacterial bioluminescence is an important regulator of multitrophic interactions in the soil. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114817. [PMID: 39365701 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Enormous efforts have been made to understand the functions of bioluminescence; however, its relevance in soil ecosystems has barely been investigated. In addition, our understanding of the biological relevance of bioluminescence is hampered by the scarcity of tools to genetically manipulate this trait. Using the symbionts of entomopathogenic nematodes, Photorhabdus bacteria, we show that bioluminescence plays important regulatory roles in multitrophic interactions in the soil. Through genetic modifications and exploiting natural variability, we provide direct evidence for the multifunctional nature of bioluminescence. It regulates abiotic and biotic stress resistance, impacts other trophic levels, including nematodes, insects, and plants, and contributes to symbiosis. Our study contributes to understanding the factors that have driven the evolution and maintenance of this trait in belowground ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Muller
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Morales-Montero
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Anja Boss
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Hiltmann
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Carlos Castaneda-Alvarez
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Aashaq H Bhat
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Carla C M Arce
- Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Research in Chemical Ecology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Gaetan Glauser
- Neuchâtel Platform of Analytical Chemistry, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Susan A Joyce
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland; School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland
| | - David J Clarke
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland; School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland
| | - Ricardo A R Machado
- Experimental Biology Group, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Collins SB, Bracken-Grissom HD. The language of light: a review of bioluminescence in deep-sea decapod shrimps. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:1806-1830. [PMID: 38706106 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13093] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
In the dark, expansive habitat of the deep sea, the production of light through bioluminescence is commonly used among a wide range of taxa. In decapod crustaceans, bioluminescence is only known in shrimps (Dendrobranchiata and Caridea) and may occur in different modes, including luminous secretions that are used to deter predators and/or from specialised light organs called photophores that function by providing camouflage against downwelling light. Photophores exhibit an extensive amount of morphological variation across decapod families: they may be internal (of hepatic origin) or embedded in surface tissues (dermal), and may possess an external lens, suggesting independent origins and multiple functions. Within Dendrobranchiata, we report bioluminescence in Sergestidae, Aristeidae, and Solenoceridae, and speculate that it may also be found in Acetidae, Luciferidae, Sicyonellidae, Benthesicymidae, and Penaeidae. Within Caridea, we report bioluminescence in Acanthephyridae, Oplophoridae, Pandalidae, and new observations for Pasiphaeidae. This comprehensive review includes historic taxonomic literature and recent studies investigating bioluminescence in all midwater and deep benthic shrimp families. Overall, we report known or suspected bioluminescence in 157 species across 12 families of decapod shrimps, increasing previous records of bioluminescent species by 65%. Mounting evidence from personal observations and the literature allow us to speculate the presence of light organs in several families thought to lack bioluminescence, making this phenomenon much more common than previously reported. We provide a detailed discussion of light organ morphology and function within each group and indicate future directions that will contribute to a better understanding of how deep-sea decapods use the language of light.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stormie B Collins
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Institute of Environment, 3000 NE 151st St, North Miami, FL, 33181, USA
| | - Heather D Bracken-Grissom
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Institute of Environment, 3000 NE 151st St, North Miami, FL, 33181, USA
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, WA, 20013-7012, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jägers P, Frischmuth T, Herlitze S. Correlation between bioluminescent blinks and swimming behavior in the splitfin flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron. BMC Ecol Evol 2024; 24:97. [PMID: 38987674 PMCID: PMC11234731 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-024-02283-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The light organs of the splitfin flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron are necessary for schooling behavior, to determine nearest neighbor distance, and to feed on zooplankton under dim light conditions. Each behavior is coupled to context-dependent blink frequencies and can be regulated via mechanical occlusion of light organs. During shoaling in the laboratory individuals show moderate blink frequencies around 100 blinks per minute. In this study, we correlated bioluminescent blinks with the spatio-temporal dynamics of swimming profiles in three dimensions, using a stereoscopic, infrared camera system. RESULTS Groups of flashlight fish showed intermediate levels of polarization and distances to the group centroid. Individuals showed higher swimming speeds and curved swimming profiles during light organ occlusion. The largest changes in swimming direction occurred when darkening the light organs. Before A. katoptron exposed light organs again, they adapted a nearly straight movement direction. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that a change in movement direction coupled to light organ occlusion in A. katoptron is an important behavioral trait in shoaling of flashlight fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Jägers
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr- University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Timo Frischmuth
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr- University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stefan Herlitze
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr- University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fronk DC, Sachs JL. Symbiotic organs: the nexus of host-microbe evolution. Trends Ecol Evol 2022; 37:599-610. [PMID: 35393155 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diverse plants and animals have evolved specialized structures to filter and house beneficial microbes. These symbiotic organs form crucial points of exchange between host and symbiont, are often shaped by both partners, and exhibit features that facilitate a suite of microbial services. While symbiotic organs exhibit varied function, morphology, and developmental plasticity, they share core features linked to the evolutionary maintenance of beneficial symbiosis. Moreover, these organs can have a significant role in altering the demographic forces that shape microbial genomes, driving population bottlenecks and horizontal gene transfer (HGT). To advance our understanding of these 'joint phenotypes' across varied systems, future research must consider the emergent forces that can shape symbiotic organs, including fitness feedbacks and conflicts between interacting genomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David C Fronk
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Joel L Sachs
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ghedotti MJ, DeKay HM, Maile AJ, Smith WL, Davis MP. Anatomy and evolution of bioluminescent organs in the slimeheads (Teleostei: Trachichthyidae). J Morphol 2021; 282:820-832. [PMID: 33733466 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial bioluminescent organs in fishes have a diverse range of tissues of origin, patterns of compartmentalization, and associated light-conducting structures. The morphology of the perianal, bacterial bioluminescent organ of Aulotrachichthys prosthemius was described previously, but the light organ in other species of slimeheads, family Trachichthyidae, is poorly known. Here, we describe the anatomy of the bioluminescent organs in trachichthyids and places the evolution of this light-producing system in the context of a new phylogeny of the Trachichthyoidei to test the hypothesis that bioluminescence evolved twice in the suborder and that the light-producing component derives from the perianal ectoderm. We use gross and histological examination to provide the first description of the bioluminescent organ of Paratrachichthys and four additional species of Aulotrachichthys. Observations also strongly suggest the presence of a perianal bioluminescent organ in Sorosichthys ananasa. The updated phylogeny of the Trachichthyoidei is the first to combine morphological and DNA-sequence (11-gene fragments) evidence, and supports a monophyletic Trachichthyidae with component subfamilies Hoplostethinae and Trachichthyinae, supporting continued recognition of the family Anoplogastridae. All bioluminescent trachichthyoids share a similar bioluminescent-organ structure with elongate chambers filled with bacteria and connected to collecting ducts that, in turn, connect to superficial ducts that lead to and have lining epithelia continuous with the epidermis. In the context of the phylogeny, the bioluminescent organ of trachichthyids is inferred to have evolved as an elaboration of the proctodeum in the ancestor of Aulotrachichthys, Paratrachichthys, and Sorosichthys independently from the structurally similar cephalic bioluminescent organs in Anomalopidae and Monocentridae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Ghedotti
- Department of Biology, Regis University, Denver, Colorado, USA.,Bell Museum of Natural History, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Hannah M DeKay
- Department of Biology, Regis University, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Alex J Maile
- Department of Biological Sciences, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA
| | - W Leo Smith
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Biodiversity Institute, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Matthew P Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Social signaling via bioluminescent blinks determines nearest neighbor distance in schools of flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6431. [PMID: 33742043 PMCID: PMC7979757 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85770-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The schooling flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron can be found at dark nights at the water surface in the Indo-Pacific. Schools are characterized by bioluminescent blink patterns of sub-ocular light organs densely-packed with bioluminescent, symbiotic bacteria. Here we analyzed how blink patterns of A. katoptron are used in social interactions. We demonstrate that isolated specimen of A. katoptron showed a high motivation to align with fixed or moving artificial light organs in an experimental tank. This intraspecific recognition of A. katoptron is mediated by blinking light and not the body shape. In addition, A. katoptron adjusts its blinking frequencies according to the light intensities. LED pulse frequencies determine the swimming speed and the blink frequency response of A. katoptron, which is modified by light organ occlusion and not exposure. In the natural environment A. katoptron is changing its blink frequencies and nearest neighbor distance in a context specific manner. Blink frequencies are also modified by changes in the occlusion time and are increased from day to night and during avoidance behavior, while group cohesion is higher with increasing blink frequencies. Our results suggest that specific blink patterns in schooling flashlight fish A. katoptron define nearest neighbor distance and determine intraspecific communication.
Collapse
|
7
|
Lau ES, Oakley TH. Multi-level convergence of complex traits and the evolution of bioluminescence. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 96:673-691. [PMID: 33306257 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Evolutionary convergence provides natural opportunities to investigate how, when, and why novel traits evolve. Many convergent traits are complex, highlighting the importance of explicitly considering convergence at different levels of biological organization, or 'multi-level convergent evolution'. To investigate multi-level convergent evolution, we propose a holistic and hierarchical framework that emphasizes breaking down traits into several functional modules. We begin by identifying long-standing questions on the origins of complexity and the diverse evolutionary processes underlying phenotypic convergence to discuss how they can be addressed by examining convergent systems. We argue that bioluminescence, a complex trait that evolved dozens of times through either novel mechanisms or conserved toolkits, is particularly well suited for these studies. We present an updated estimate of at least 94 independent origins of bioluminescence across the tree of life, which we calculated by reviewing and summarizing all estimates of independent origins. Then, we use our framework to review the biology, chemistry, and evolution of bioluminescence, and for each biological level identify questions that arise from our systematic review. We focus on luminous organisms that use the shared luciferin substrates coelenterazine or vargulin to produce light because these organisms convergently evolved bioluminescent proteins that use the same luciferins to produce bioluminescence. Evolutionary convergence does not necessarily extend across biological levels, as exemplified by cases of conservation and disparity in biological functions, organs, cells, and molecules associated with bioluminescence systems. Investigating differences across bioluminescent organisms will address fundamental questions on predictability and contingency in convergent evolution. Lastly, we highlight unexplored areas of bioluminescence research and advances in sequencing and chemical techniques useful for developing bioluminescence as a model system for studying multi-level convergent evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily S Lau
- Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, U.S.A
| | - Todd H Oakley
- Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cortesi F, Mitchell LJ, Tettamanti V, Fogg LG, de Busserolles F, Cheney KL, Marshall NJ. Visual system diversity in coral reef fishes. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 106:31-42. [PMID: 32593517 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Coral reefs are one of the most species rich and colourful habitats on earth and for many coral reef teleosts, vision is central to their survival and reproduction. The diversity of reef fish visual systems arises from variations in ocular and retinal anatomy, neural processing and, perhaps most easily revealed by, the peak spectral absorbance of visual pigments. This review examines the interplay between retinal morphology and light environment across a number of reef fish species, but mainly focusses on visual adaptations at the molecular level (i.e. visual pigment structure). Generally, visual pigments tend to match the overall light environment or micro-habitat, with fish inhabiting greener, inshore waters possessing longer wavelength-shifted visual pigments than open water blue-shifted species. In marine fishes, particularly those that live on the reef, most species have between two (likely dichromatic) to four (possible tetrachromatic) cone spectral sensitivities and a single rod for crepuscular vision; however, most are trichromatic with three spectral sensitivities. In addition to variation in spectral sensitivity number, spectral placement of the absorbance maximum (λmax) also has a surprising degree of variability. Variation in ocular and retinal anatomy is also observed at several levels in reef fishes but is best represented by differences in arrangement, density and distribution of neural cell types across the retina (i.e. retinal topography). Here, we focus on the seven reef fish families most comprehensively studied to date to examine and compare how behaviour, environment, activity period, ontogeny and phylogeny might interact to generate the exceptional diversity in visual system design that we observe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Cortesi
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Laurie J Mitchell
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Valerio Tettamanti
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Lily G Fogg
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Fanny de Busserolles
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Karen L Cheney
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - N Justin Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Santon M, Bitton PP, Dehm J, Fritsch R, Harant UK, Anthes N, Michiels NK. Redirection of ambient light improves predator detection in a diurnal fish. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20192292. [PMID: 31964304 PMCID: PMC7015323 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.2292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cases where animals use controlled illumination to improve vision are rare and thus far limited to chemiluminescence, which only functions in darkness. This constraint was recently relaxed by studies on Tripterygion delaisi, a small triplefin that redirects sunlight instead. By reflecting light sideways with its iris, it has been suggested to induce and detect eyeshine in nearby micro-prey. Here, we test whether 'diurnal active photolocation' also improves T. delaisi's ability to detect the cryptobenthic sit-and-wait predator Scorpaena porcus, a scorpionfish with strong daytime retroreflective eyeshine. Three independent experiments revealed that triplefins in which light redirection was artificially suppressed approached scorpionfish significantly closer than two control treatments before moving away to a safer distance. Visual modelling confirmed that ocular light redirection by a triplefin is sufficiently strong to generate a luminance increase in scorpionfish eyeshine that can be perceived by the triplefin over 6-8 cm under average conditions. These distances coincide well with the closest approaches observed. We conclude that light redirection by small, diurnal fish significantly contributes to their ability to visually detect cryptic predators, strongly widening the conditions under which active sensing with light is feasible. We discuss the consequences for fish eye evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Santon
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pierre-Paul Bitton
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 232 Elizabeth Avenue, St John's, NL Canada, A1B 3X9
| | - Jasha Dehm
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.,School of Marine Studies, Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment, University of the South Pacific, Laucala Bay Rd, Suva, Fiji
| | - Roland Fritsch
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike K Harant
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nils Anthes
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nico K Michiels
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Stubbendieck RM, Li H, Currie CR. Convergent evolution of signal-structure interfaces for maintaining symbioses. Curr Opin Microbiol 2019; 50:71-78. [PMID: 31707219 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2019.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Symbiotic microbes are essential to the ecological success and evolutionary diversification of multicellular organisms. The establishment and stability of bipartite symbioses are shaped by mechanisms ensuring partner fidelity between host and symbiont. In this minireview, we demonstrate how the interface of chemical signals and host structures influences fidelity between legume root nodules and rhizobia, Hawaiian bobtail squid light organs and Allivibrio fischeri, and fungus-growing ant crypts and Pseudonocardia. Subsequently, we illustrate the morphological diversity and widespread phylogenetic distribution of specialized structures used by hosts to house microbial symbionts, indicating the importance of signal-structure interfaces across the history of multicellular life. These observations, and the insights garnered from well-studied bipartite associations, demonstrate the need to concentrate on the signal-structure interface in complex and multipartite systems, including the human microbiome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reed M Stubbendieck
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Hongjie Li
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States
| | - Cameron R Currie
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gruber DF, Phillips BT, O’Brien R, Boominathan V, Veeraraghavan A, Vasan G, O’Brien P, Pieribone VA, Sparks JS. Bioluminescent flashes drive nighttime schooling behavior and synchronized swimming dynamics in flashlight fish. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219852. [PMID: 31412054 PMCID: PMC6693688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Schooling fishes, like flocking birds and swarming insects, display remarkable behavioral coordination. While over 25% of fish species exhibit schooling behavior, nighttime schooling has rarely been observed or reported. This is due to vision being the primary modality for schooling, which is corroborated by the fact that most fish schools disperse at critically low light levels. Here we report on a large aggregation of the bioluminescent flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron that exhibited nighttime schooling behavior during multiple moon phases, including the new moon. Data were recorded with a suite of low-light imaging devices, including a high-speed, high-resolution scientific complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (sCMOS) camera. Image analysis revealed nighttime schooling using synchronized bioluminescent flashing displays, and demonstrated that school motion synchrony exhibits correlation with relative swim speed. A computer model of flashlight fish schooling behavior shows that only a small percentage of individuals need to exhibit bioluminescence in order for school cohesion to be maintained. Flashlight fish schooling is unique among fishes, in that bioluminescence enables schooling in conditions of no ambient light. In addition, some members can still partake in the school while not actively exhibiting their bioluminescence. Image analysis of our field data and model demonstrate that if a small percentage of fish become motivated to change direction, the rest of the school follows. The use of bioluminescence by flashlight fish to enable schooling in shallow water adds an additional ecological application to bioluminescence and suggests that schooling behavior in mesopelagic bioluminescent fishes may be also mediated by luminescent displays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David F. Gruber
- Department of Natural Sciences, City University of New York, Baruch College, New York, New York, United States of America
- PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, New York, United States of America
- Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Brennan T. Phillips
- Department of Ocean Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Narragansett, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Rory O’Brien
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Vivek Boominathan
- Rice University, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ashok Veeraraghavan
- Rice University, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ganesh Vasan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Peter O’Brien
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Vincent A. Pieribone
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - John S. Sparks
- Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Ichthyology, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Visual modelling supports the potential for prey detection by means of diurnal active photolocation in a small cryptobenthic fish. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8089. [PMID: 31147614 PMCID: PMC6542814 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44529-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Active sensing has been well documented in animals that use echolocation and electrolocation. Active photolocation, or active sensing using light, has received much less attention, and only in bioluminescent nocturnal species. However, evidence has suggested the diurnal triplefin Tripterygion delaisi uses controlled iris radiance, termed ocular sparks, for prey detection. While this form of diurnal active photolocation was behaviourally described, a study exploring the physical process would provide compelling support for this mechanism. In this paper, we investigate the conditions under which diurnal active photolocation could assist T. delaisi in detecting potential prey. In the field, we sampled gammarids (genus Cheirocratus) and characterized the spectral properties of their eyes, which possess strong directional reflectors. In the laboratory, we quantified ocular sparks size and their angle-dependent radiance. Combined with environmental light measurements and known properties of the visual system of T. delaisi, we modeled diurnal active photolocation under various scenarios. Our results corroborate that diurnal active photolocation should help T. delaisi detect gammarids at distances relevant to foraging, 4.5 cm under favourable conditions and up to 2.5 cm under average conditions. To determine the prevalence of diurnal active photolocation for micro-prey, we encourage further theoretical and empirical work.
Collapse
|
13
|
Mark MD, Donner M, Eickelbeck D, Stepien J, Nowrousian M, Kück U, Paris F, Hellinger J, Herlitze S. Visual tuning in the flashlight fish Anomalops katoptron to detect blue, bioluminescent light. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198765. [PMID: 29995896 PMCID: PMC6040694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioluminescence is a fascinating phenomenon and can be found in many different organisms including fish. It has been suggested that bioluminescence is used for example for defense, prey attraction, and for intraspecific communication to attract for example sexual partners. The flashlight fish, Anomalops katoptron (A. katoptron), is a nocturnal fish that produces bioluminescence and lives in shallow waters, which makes it ideal for laboratory studies. In order to understand A. katoptron's ability to detect bioluminescent light (480 to 490 nm) at night, we characterized the visual system adaptation of A. katoptron using phylogenetic, electrophysiological and behavioral studies. We found that the retinae of A. katoptron contain rods and sparse cones. A. katoptron retinae express two main visual pigments, rhodopsin (RH1), and to a lesser extent, rhodopsin-like opsin (RH2). Interestingly, recombinant RH1 and RH2 are maximally sensitive to a wavelength of approximately 490 nm light (λmax), which correspond to the spectral peak of in vivo electroretinogram (ERG) measurements. In addition, behavioral assays revealed that A. katoptron is attracted by low intensity blue but not red light. Collectively, our results suggest that the A. katoptron visual system is optimized to detect blue light in the frequency range of its own bioluminescence and residual starlight.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D. Mark
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Marcel Donner
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dennis Eickelbeck
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jennifer Stepien
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Department of General and Molecular Botany, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ulrich Kück
- Department of General and Molecular Botany, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Frank Paris
- Department of Animal Physiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jens Hellinger
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stefan Herlitze
- Department of General Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Michiels NK, Seeburger VC, Kalb N, Meadows MG, Anthes N, Mailli AA, Jack CB. Controlled iris radiance in a diurnal fish looking at prey. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:170838. [PMID: 29515824 PMCID: PMC5830713 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.170838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Active sensing using light, or active photolocation, is only known from deep sea and nocturnal fish with chemiluminescent 'search' lights. Bright irides in diurnal fish species have recently been proposed as a potential analogue. Here, we contribute to this discussion by testing whether iris radiance is actively modulated. The focus is on behaviourally controlled iris reflections, called 'ocular sparks'. The triplefin Tripterygion delaisi can alternate between red and blue ocular sparks, allowing us to test the prediction that spark frequency and hue depend on background hue and prey presence. In a first experiment, we found that blue ocular sparks were significantly more often 'on' against red backgrounds, and red ocular sparks against blue backgrounds, particularly when copepods were present. A second experiment tested whether hungry fish showed more ocular sparks, which was not the case. However, background hue once more resulted in a significant differential use of ocular sparks. We conclude that iris radiance through ocular sparks in T. delaisi is not a side effect of eye movement, but adaptively modulated in response to the context under which prey are detected. We discuss the possible alternative functions of ocular sparks, including an as yet speculative role in active photolocation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nico K. Michiels
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Victoria C. Seeburger
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Universität Hohenheim, Landesanstalt für Bienenkunde (730), August-von-Hartmann-Straße 13, 70599 Hohenheim, Germany
| | - Nadine Kalb
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Didaktik der Biologie, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 24, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Melissa G. Meadows
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Science Center 109, Biology Department, St Francis University, 117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto, PA 15940, USA
| | - Nils Anthes
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Amalia A. Mailli
- Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institute for Evolution and Ecology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Marine Genomics Group, Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, Nord University, Universitetsaléen 11, 8049 Bodø, Norway
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tetsch L. Futtersuche im Blitzlichtgewitter. CHEM UNSERER ZEIT 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ciuz.201770306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
16
|
Harant UK, Michiels NK. Fish with red fluorescent eyes forage more efficiently under dim, blue-green light conditions. BMC Ecol 2017; 17:18. [PMID: 28427391 PMCID: PMC5397785 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-017-0127-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Natural red fluorescence is particularly conspicuous in the eyes of some small, benthic, predatory fishes. Fluorescence also increases in relative efficiency with increasing depth, which has generated speculation about its possible function as a “light organ” to detect cryptic organisms under bluish light. Here we investigate whether foraging success is improved under ambient conditions that make red fluorescence stand out more, using the triplefin Tripterygion delaisi as a model system. We repeatedly presented 10 copepods to individual fish (n = 40) kept under a narrow blue-green spectrum and compared their performance with that under a broad spectrum with the same overall brightness. The experiment was repeated for two levels of brightness, a shaded one representing 0.4% of the light present at the surface and a heavily shaded one with about 0.01% of the surface brightness. Results Fish were 7% more successful at catching copepods under the narrow, fluorescence-friendly spectrum than under the broad spectrum. However, this effect was significant under the heavily shaded light treatment only. Conclusions This outcome corroborates previous predictions that fluorescence may be an adaptation to blue-green, heavily shaded environments, which coincides with the opportunistic biology of this species that lives in the transition zone between exposed and heavily shaded microhabitats. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12898-017-0127-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Katharina Harant
- Department of Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institution for Evolution and Ecology, University of Tuebingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany. .,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tuebingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Nicolaas Karel Michiels
- Department of Animal Evolutionary Ecology, Institution for Evolution and Ecology, University of Tuebingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tuebingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|