Spawning kinetics and egg/larval quality of greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) in response to multiple GnRHa injections or implants

The greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is one of the most promising finfish species for aquaculture, due to its cosmopolitan distribution and acceptability, high growth rates and large size. However, lack of reproduction control has been one of the main bottlenecks for its commercialization. The study examined two endocrine methods for the induction of oocyte maturation/ovulation and spawning, which are based on the induction of endogenous Luteinizing Hormone (LH) release from the pituitary, through the use of Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone agonist (GnRHa) either in the form of sustained-release delivery systems (implants) or injections (acute release). The stock (n = 28) consisted of wild fish captured in 2011 and each GnRHa administration method was conducted in two replicates, with 6 and 8 fish per tank, respectively, at a 1:1 sex ratio. Fish were given a GnRHa injection once a week (three administrations), or a GnRHa implant every 2 weeks (two administrations). Mean daily relative fecundity was significantly higher (t_1.3 = -5.24, P = 0.012) in the implanted fish (15,170 ± 2,738 eggs kg^-1 female day^-1) compared to the injected fish (6,119 ± 2,790 eggs kg^-1 female day^-1). Total relative fecundity was also significantly higher (t_1.3 = -9.93, P = 0.003) in the implanted fish (102,402 ± 20,337 eggs kg^-1 female) compared to the injected ones (26,517 ± 9,938 eggs kg^-1 female), but there were no differences in the quality of eggs in terms of fertilization, 24-h embryo survival, hatching and 5-d larval survival. The number of females with fully vitellogenic oocytes eligible for induction of spawning decreased from the initial to the final sampling, from 7 to 6 females for the GnRHa implant treatment and from 7 to 3 females for the GnRHa injection treatment. In addition to apparently promoting the proper endocrine changes leading to multiple cycles of oocyte maturation, ovulation and spawning, and thus producing larger numbers of eggs; the use of GnRHa implants may be more appropriate in greater amberjack than multiple injections because (a) it also stimulates vitellogenesis and (b) involves less handling of the fish.

Evolutionarily conserved vasa identifies embryonic and gonadal germ cells in spinyhead croaker Collichthys lucidus

In this study, a 2198 bp full-length cDNA of spinyhead croaker Collichthys lucidus vasa gene encoding 616 amino-acid residues was obtained. Multiple alignment revealed that C. lucidus vasa has eight conserved characteristic motifs of the DEAD box protein family and has the highest identity to large yellow croaker Larimichthys croceas. Reverse-transcription (RT)-PCR and Western blot analyses indicated that the vasa messenger (m)RNA and Vasa protein are specifically expressed in the gonads in both sexes. In situ hybridisation (ISH) demonstrated that vasa RNA is exclusively detected in the germ cells in C. lucidus gonads and its temporospatial expression reveals a dynamic pattern during oogenesis. Surprisingly, C. lucidus vasa 3'UTR can direct stable and specific GFP expression in the primordial germ cells (PGC) of medaka Oryzias latipes embryos. Taken together, these results suggest that because C. lucidus vasa expression delineates critical stages of oogenesis, it may be a useful molecular marker for the identification of gonadal germ cells, facilitating the isolation and utilization of germ cells in future study.

Boat noise affects the early life history of two damselfishes

Anthropogenic noise can have a negative effect on the physiology and survival of marine fishes. Most research has focused on later life-stages, and few studies have investigated the effects of human-induced noise on embryogenesis. The current study investigated whether playback of motorboat noise affected the embryogenesis of the coral reef damselfishes, Amphiprion melanopus and Acanthochromis polyacanthus. Embryos reared under the playback of boat noise had faster heart rates compared to the ambient reef controls. The effects of noise on morphological development differed between species and the fundamental interrelationships between early life history characteristics changed dramatically under boat noise for Ac. polyacanthus. Noise treatments did not alter the survival rates of embryos under laboratory conditions. Although species specific, our findings suggest that anthropogenic noise causes physiological responses in fishes during embryogenesis and these changes have direct impacts on their development and these alterations may have carry-over effects to later life stages.

Ontogeny of urea and ammonia transporters in mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) early life stages

The mechanism(s) of ammonia and urea excretion in freshwater fish have received considerable attention; however, parallel investigations of seawater fish, specifically in the early life stages are scarce. The first objective of this study was to evaluate the patterns of ammonia and urea excretion in mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) up to 102  hours post fertilization (hpf). Similar to other teleosts, mahi embryos are ureotelic before hatch and gradually switch to being ammoniotelic around the time of hatch. The second objective was to characterize mRNA levels of ammonia transporters (Rhag, Rhbg, Rhcg1 and Rhcg2), as well as urea transporter (UT) and sodium hydrogen exchangers (NHE3 and NHE2) during mahi development. As predicted, the mRNA levels of the Rhesus glycoprotein (Rh) genes, especially Rhag, Rhbg and the UT gene were highly consistent with the ontogeny of ammonia and urea excretion rates. Further, the localization of each transporter was examined in larvae collected at 60 and 102 hpf using in situ hybridization. Rhag was expressed in the gills, yolk sac, and operculum. Rhbg was expressed in the gills and upper mouth. Rhcg1 and NHE3 were co-localized in the sub-operculum, and Rhcg2 was expressed in the skin. Together, these results indicate that urea excretion is critical for ammonia detoxification during embryonic development and that Rh proteins are involved in ammonia excretion via gills and yolk sac, possibly facilitated by NHE3.

Effects of Deepwater Horizon crude oil on ocular development in two estuarine fish species, red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in crude oil have been shown to cause the dysregulation of genes important in eye development and function, as well as morphological abnormalities of the eye. However, it is not currently understood how these changes in gene expression are manifested as deficits in visual function. Embryonic red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) were exposed to water accommodated fractions (WAFs) of weathered crude oil and assessed for visual function using an optomotor response assay in early life-stage larvae, with subsequent samples taken for histological analysis of the eyes. Larvae of both species exposed to increasing concentrations of oil exhibited a reduced optomotor response. The mean diameters of retinal layers, which play an important role in visual function and image processing, were significantly reduced in oil-exposed sheepshead larvae, though not in red drum larvae. The present study provides evidence that weathered crude oil has a significant effect on visual function in early life-stage fishes.

Development, and effect of water temperature on development rate, of pikeperch Sander lucioperca embryos

Knowledge of embryo development is essential to the application of reproductive biotechnology in aquaculture, including for pikeperch Sander lucioperca. We describe pikeperch embryo development and demonstrated effects of temperature on the duration of embryogenesis. Developmental stages in embryos incubated at 15 °C were identified as zygote, 0-1.5 h post-fertilization (hpf); cleavage, 2.5-7.5 hpf; blastula, 9-18.75 hpf; gastrula, 21-39, hpf; segmentation, 45-105 hpf; and hatching, 125-197 hpf. Additional groups of eggs were fertilized and incubated at 10, 15, 20, and 25 °C to document stages of development, development rate, and survival. The optimal fertilization and incubation temperature was shown to be 15 °C, with the highest fertilization, survival, and hatching rates. Embryo development was slower at 10 °C, with 45% of fertilized embryos surviving to hatching. Development was accelerated at 20 °C, and resulted in a 56% survival rate of fertilized embryos. At 25 °C, embryos did not develop to the blastula stage. Pikeperch could be a valuable percid model for research in which flexible incubation temperatures is required.

Developmental transcriptomic analyses for mechanistic insights into critical pathways involved in embryogenesis of pelagic mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus)

Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) is a commercially and ecologically important species of fish occurring in tropical and temperate waters worldwide. Understanding early life events is crucial for predicting effects of environmental stress, which is largely restricted by a lack of genetic resources regarding expression of early developmental genes and regulation of pathways. The need for anchoring developmental stages to transcriptional activities is highlighted by increasing evidence on the impacts of recurrent worldwide oil spills in this sensitive species during early development. By means of high throughput sequencing, we characterized the developmental transcriptome of mahi-mahi at three critical developmental stages, from pharyngula embryonic stage (24 hpf) to 48 hpf yolk-sac larva (transition 1), and to 96 hpf free-swimming larva (transition 2). With comparative analysis by multiple bioinformatic tools, a larger number of significantly altered genes and more diverse gene ontology terms were observed during transition 2 than transition 1. Cellular and tissue development terms were more significantly enriched in transition 1, while metabolism related terms were more enriched in transition 2, indicating a switch progressing from general embryonic development to metabolism during the two transitions. Special focus was given on the most significant common canonical pathways (e.g. calcium signaling, glutamate receptor signaling, cAMP response element-binding protein signaling, cardiac β-adrenergic signaling, etc.) and expression of developmental genes (e.g. collagens, myosin, notch, glutamate metabotropic receptor etc.), which were associated with morphological changes of nervous, muscular, and cardiovascular system. These data will provide an important basis for understanding embryonic development and identifying molecular mechanisms of abnormal development in fish species.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation late in development increases the toxicity of oil to mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) embryos

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 overlapped with the spawning of many pelagic fish species in the Gulf of Mexico, including mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus). Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) released during the spill have been shown to cause photo-induced toxicity under ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In the present study, mahi-mahi embryos were exposed to high-energy water accommodated fractions of source and naturally weathered oils for up to 48 h. The timing of co-exposure with UV radiation varied between an early development exposure for 8 h or a late development exposure for 8 h. The UV co-exposure had a photo-induced toxic effect on hatching success for all oil types and exposure scenarios. A more sensitive developmental window to photo-induced toxicity was observed when UV exposure occurred late in development. Source Oil B was over 6-fold more toxic, and Massachusetts source oil was 1.6-fold more toxic when the embryos were co-exposed to UV light late in development. Furthermore, weathered oil from the surface co-exposure with UV late in development resulted in bradycardia in the mahi-mahi. The present study provides evidence that the developmental window when UV co-exposure occurs has a significant effect on the degree of photo-induced toxicity of oil and that UV co-exposure may exacerbate long-term cardiac effects in developing fish. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1592-1598. © 2016 SETAC.

Molecular characterization and expression analysis during embryo development of CD4-1 homologue in large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea

CD4⁺ helper T (Th) cells are a master component of the adaptive immune response. CD4 is one of the most effective surface markers for identifying Th cells. In the present study, we cloned and characterized a CD4-1 homologue, LycCD4-1, from large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea. The full-length cDNA of LycCD4-1 is 1695 bp long, encoding a protein of 462 amino acids. The deduced LycCD4-1 protein has a typical domain architecture as found in mammalian CD4 molecules, including a signal peptide, four extracellular immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) domains, a transmembrane region, and a CXC signaling motif in the cytoplasmic tail. Four N-glycosylation sites and 10 cysteine residues were also found in LycCD4-1, which may be essential for its tertiary structure and succeeding function. Homology comparison showed that LycCD4-1 has 27.9-58.4% identity to other teleost fish CD4-1 molecules, and 16.4-20% identity to those of higher vertebrates. Genomic analysis revealed that the LycCD4-1 gene consisted of nine exons and eight introns and exhibited a similar exon-intron organization to other species CD4 genes except for a different intron length. Phylogenetic analysis showed that LycCD4-1 form a cluster with CD4-1 molecules in other fish species. The LycCD4-1 was constitutively expressed in all tissues tested, with a higher expression in gills and spleen. LycCD4-1 mRNA expression in the spleen and head kidney tissue was increased by poly (I:C) at 48 h, whereas its expression levels were somewhat down-regulated at 6 h and 72 h after bacterial vaccine induction in spleen. Unexpectedly, LycCD4-1 mRNA could be detected in each stage of early embryo development since fertilized eggs, with a higher level before mid-gastrula and the highest level in high blastocysts. These results will be helpful for better understanding molecular characteristics of CD4-1 and tracing origin of CD4-1⁺ cell precursors in fish.

Acute toxicity of chlorpyrifos to embryo and larvae of banded gourami Trichogaster fasciata

This study elucidated the acute toxicity of chlorpyrifos on the early life stages of banded gourami (Trichogaster fasciata). To determine the acute effects of chlorpyrifos on their survival and development, we exposedthe embryos and two-day-old larvae to six concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.10, 1.0, 10 and 100 µg L^-1) of chlorpyrifos in plastic bowls. Log-logistic regression was used to calculate LC10 and LC50 values. Results showed that embryo mortality significantly increased with increasing chlorpyrifos concentrations. The 24-h LC10 and LC50 values (with 95% confidence limits) of chlorpyrifos for embryos were 0.89 (0.50-1.58) and 11.8 (9.12-15.4) µg L^-1, respectively. Hatching success decreased and mortality of larvae significantly increased with increasing concentrations of chlorpyrifos. The 24-h LC10 and LC50 values (with 95% confidence limits) of chlorpyrifos for larvae were 0.53 (0.27-1.06) and 21.7 (15.9-29.4) µg L^-1, respectively; the 48-h LC10 and LC50 for larvae were 0.04 (0.02-0.09) and 5.47 (3.77-7.94) µg L^-1, respectively. The results of this study suggest that 1 µg L^-1 of chlorpyrifos in the aquatic environment may adversely affect the development and the reproduction of banded gourami. Our study also suggests that banded gourami fish can serve as an ideal model species for evaluating developmental toxicity of environmental contaminants.

Influence of metal(loid) bioaccumulation and maternal transfer on embryo-larval development in fish exposed to a major coal ash spill

In December 2008, an earthen retaining wall at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Kingston Fossil Fuel Plant failed and released 4.1 millionm(3) of coal ash to rivers flowing into Watts Bar Reservoir in east Tennessee, United States (U.S.). As part of a comprehensive effort to evaluate the risks to aquatic resources from this spill - the largest in U.S. history - we compared bioaccumulation and maternal transfer of selenium (Se), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) in adult redear sunfish (Lepomis macrolophus), collected two years after the spill from both coal-ash exposed and non-exposed areas of the Emory and Clinch Rivers, with the success of embryo-larval development in their offspring. Whole body and ovary concentrations of Se in female sunfish at three study sites downstream of the spill were significantly elevated (site means=4.9-5.3 and 6.7-9.0mg/kg d.w. whole body and ovary concentrations, respectively) compared with concentrations in fish from reference sites upstream of the spill site (2.2-3.2mg/kg d.w. for whole bodies and 3.6-4.8mg/kg d.w. for ovaries). However, Se concentrations in coal ash-exposed areas remain below proposed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) criteria for the protection of aquatic life. Site-to-site variation in fish concentrations of As and Hg were not well-correlated with ash-exposure, reflecting the multiple sources of these metal(loid)s in the affected watersheds. In 7-day laboratory tests of embryos and larvae derived from in vitro crosses of eggs and sperm from these field-collected sunfish, fertilization success, hatching success, embryo-larval survival, and incidences of developmental abnormalities did not differ significantly between ash-exposed and non-exposed fish. Furthermore, these developmental endpoints were not correlated with whole body or ovary concentrations of Se, As, or Hg in the maternal fish, or with fish size, ovary weight, or gonadal-somatic indices. Results from this and related studies associated with the Kingston coal ash spill are consistent with proposed USEPA fish-based water quality criteria for Se, and to date continue to suggest that long-term exposures to sediment containing residual ash may not present a significant chronic risk to fish populations exposed to this major coal ash release.

Ultraviolet Radiation Enhances the Toxicity of Deepwater Horizon Oil to Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) Embryos

The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill resulted in the accidental release of millions barrels of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. Photoinduced toxicity following coexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one mechanism by which polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from oil spills may exert toxicity. Mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus), an important fishery resource, have positively buoyant, transparent eggs. These characteristics may result in mahi-mahi embryos being at particular risk from photoinduced toxicity. The goal of this study was to determine whether exposure to ultraviolet radiation as natural sunlight enhances the toxicity of crude oil to embryonic mahi-mahi. Mahi-mahi embryos were exposed to several dilutions of water accommodated fractions (WAF) from slick oil collected during the 2010 spill and gradations of natural sunlight in a fully factorial design. Here, we report that coexposure to natural sunlight and WAF significantly reduced percent hatch in mahi-mahi embryos. Effect concentrations of PAH in WAF were within the range of surface PAH concentrations reported in the Gulf of Mexico during the Deepwater Horizon spill. These data suggest that laboratory toxicity tests that do not include UV may underestimate the toxicity of oil spills to early lifestage fish species.

Severe malformations of eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) fry are induced by maternal estrogenic exposure during early embryogenesis

Pregnant eelpout were exposed via the water to known endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) to clarify if EDCs could be causing the increased eelpout fry malformation frequencies observed in coastal areas receiving high anthropogenic input. The presence of a teratogenic window for estrogen-induced malformations was also investigated by starting the exposure at different times during eelpout pregnancy. Both 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) (17.8 ng/L) and pyrene (0.5 μg/L) significantly increased fry malformation frequency whereas 4-t-octylphenol (4-t-OP) up to 14.3 μg/L did not. Vitellogenin was significantly induced by EE2 (5.7 and 17.8 ng/L) but not by 4-t-OP and pyrene. A critical period for estrogen-induced fry malformations was identified and closed between 14 and 22 days post fertilization (dpf). Exposure to 17β-estradiol (E2) between 0 and 14 dpf caused severe malformations and severity increased the closer exposure start was to fertilization, whereas malformations were absent by exposure starting later than 14 dpf. Data on ovarian fluid volume and larval length supported the suggested teratogenic window. Larval mortality also increased when exposure started right after fertilization.

The effects of weathering and chemical dispersion on Deepwater Horizon crude oil toxicity to mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus) early life stages

To better understand the impact of the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) incident on commercially and ecologically important pelagic fish species, a mahi-mahi spawning program was developed to assess the effect of embryonic exposure to DWH crude oil with particular emphasis on the effects of weathering and dispersant on the magnitude of toxicity. Acute lethality (96 h LC50) ranged from 45.8 (28.4-63.1) μg l(-1) ΣPAH for wellhead (source) oil to 8.8 (7.4-10.3) μg l(-1) ΣPAH for samples collected from the surface slick, reinforcing previous work that weathered oil is more toxic on a ΣPAH basis. Differences in toxicity appear related to the amount of dissolved 3 ringed PAHs. The dispersant Corexit 9500 did not influence acute lethality of oil preparations. Embryonic oil exposure resulted in cardiotoxicity after 48 h, as evident from pericardial edema and reduced atrial contractility. Whereas pericardial edema appeared to correlate well with acute lethality at 96 h, atrial contractility did not. However, sub-lethal cardiotoxicity may impact long-term performance and survival. Dispersant did not affect the occurrence of pericardial edema; however, there was an apparent reduction in atrial contractility at 48 h of exposure. Pericardial edema at 48 h and lethality at 96 h were equally sensitive endpoints in mahi-mahi.

Proteomic analysis of early-stage embryos: implications for egg quality in hapuku (Polyprion oxygeneios)

In order to develop biomarkers that may help predict the egg quality of captive hapuku (Polyprion oxygeneios) and provide potential avenues for its manipulation, the present study (1) sequenced the proteome of early-stage embryos using isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification analysis, and (2) aimed to establish the predictive value of the abundance of identified proteins with regard to egg quality through regression analysis. Egg quality was determined for eight different egg batches by blastomere symmetry scores. In total, 121 proteins were identified and assigned to one of nine major groups according to their function/pathway. A mixed-effects model analysis revealed a decrease in relative protein abundance that correlated with (decreasing) egg quality in one major group (heat-shock proteins). No differences were found in the other protein groups. Linear regression analysis, performed for each identified protein separately, revealed seven proteins that showed a significant decrease in relative abundance with reduced blastomere symmetry: two correlates that have been named in other studies (vitellogenin, heat-shock protein-70) and a further five new candidate proteins (78 kDa glucose-regulated protein, elongation factor-2, GTP-binding nuclear protein Ran, iduronate 2-sulfatase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase). Notwithstanding issues associated with multiple statistical testing, we conclude that these proteins, and especially iduronate 2-sulfatase and the generic heat-shock protein group, could serve as biomarkers of egg quality in hapuku.

[Embryonic and Larval Development of the Asian Seabass Lates calcarifer (Pisces: Perciformes: Latidae) under Thermostatically Controlled Conditions]

Material for this study was obtained from the hatchery with brood stock of Lates calcarifer that originated from a natural population living in inshore waters off Central Vietnam. Commercial interest in L. calcarifer as an object of mariculture and wildstock fishery has resulted in several publications on its early life history; nevertheless, comprehensive description of early development of L. calcarifer based on controlled incubation of embryos and larvae has remained absent. In the present paper embryonic and larval development to the stage of anlage of pelvic fins is described in detail and illustrated with original drawings of live material on the basis of thermostatically controlled incubation of embryos at 27°C and larvae at 26.8°C (26.5-28.0°C). The first cleavage furrow appeared at the age of 33.5 min. The duration of synchronous cleavage cycle was 16 min. About 80% of all embryos hatched at the age of 18 h. The length of newly hatched larva during the first hour after emergence from the egg shell was 1.63 ± 0.016 mm (1.50-1.75 mm). Chronology of development of the organs, early circulatory system, and pigmentation pattern is given. The dynamics of change in the trunk and caudal body segment number in larva from hatching to the moment of anlage of pelvic fins is shown. The total number of body segments reached the maximum value of 26-27 soon after hatching and then decreased to 20-21 segments. Newly received data are discussed in a comparative context of development of some other teleosts.

[Osteological development of the vertebral column and caudal complex of Lujanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) larvae under rearing conditions]

The spotted rose snapper (Lutjanus guttatus) is an important commercial species in Mexico with good culture potential. The osteological study at early stages in this species is an important tool to confirm normal bone structure and for the detection of malformations that may occur during early development. This study was carried out in order to evaluate and describe the normal osteological development of the vertebral column and caudal complex of this species grown under controlled conditions. For this, a total of 540 larvae of L. guttatus, between 2.1 and 17.5 mm of total length (TL), were cultured during 36 days; culture conditions were 28 degrees C, 5.74 mg/L oxygen and 32.2 ups salinity with standard feeding rates. To detect growth changes, a sample of 15 organisms was daily taken from day one until day 36 of post-hatch (DPH). Samples were processed following standard techniques of clearing, and cartilage (alcian blue) and bone staining (alizarin red). Results showed that the vertebral column is composed of ten vertebrae in the abdominal region, and 14 vertebrae including the urostyle in the caudal region. The development of the axial skeleton starts with the neural arches and haemal arches at 3.8 mm TL. Caudal elements such as the hypurals and parahypural began to develop at 4.1 mm TL. Pre-flexion and flexion of the notochord and the formation of all hypurals were observed between 5.3 and 5.8 mm TL. Ossification of the vertebrae in the abdominal region and in some neural arches initiated at 9.5mm TL. In the caudal region, all the neural and haemal arches ossified at 10.2 mm TL. All the abdominal vertebrae and their respective neural arches and parapophyses ossified at 11.2 mm TL, while the elements of the caudal complex that ossified were the hypurals, parahypurals and modified haemal spines. All caudal fm rays, 12 neural spines and 3 haemal arches were ossified by 15.5 mm. The complete ossification process of this specie under laboratory culture conditions was observed when larvae reached 17.3 mm TL on 36 DPH. Detailed analysis of the osteological structures will allow a reference description to evaluate and detect malformations that may occur during the larval culture of the spotted rose snapper.

17β-estradiol causes abnormal development in embryos of the viviparous eelpout

Elevated frequencies of malformations among the offspring of Baltic eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) have been observed in aquatic environments receiving high anthropogenic input suggesting that manmade chemicals could be the causative agent. However, causal links between exposure to chemicals and abnormal development have never been confirmed in laboratory experiments. The purpose of this study was to investigate if exposure to 17β-estradiol (E2) causes abnormal development in larvae of the viviparous eelpout. Wild female eelpout were collected immediately after fertilization and exposed to E2 concentrations ranging from 5.7 to 133 ng L(-1) for 6 weeks in a flow through test system. The experiment shows that E2 concentrations of 53.6 and 133 ng L(-1) cause severe abnormal development among eelpout embryos. Reduced amount of ovarian fluid and increased weight of the ovarian sac indicate disturbance of ovarian function. Female plasma concentrations of E2 and vitellogenin increase in a monotonic concentration-response relationship with significant induction in the low concentration range. Our findings support the plausibility that the abnormal development among eelpout embryos encountered in monitoring programs may actually be caused by exposure to chemicals in the environment.

Acute embryonic or juvenile exposure to Deepwater Horizon crude oil impairs the swimming performance of mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus)

The Deepwater Horizon incident likely resulted in exposure of commercially and ecologically important fish species to crude oil during the sensitive early life stages. We show that brief exposure of a water-accommodated fraction of oil from the spill to mahi-mahi as juveniles, or as embryos/larvae that were then raised for ∼25 days to juveniles, reduces their swimming performance. These physiological deficits, likely attributable to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), occurred at environmentally realistic exposure concentrations. Specifically, a 48 h exposure of 1.2 ± 0.6 μg L(-1) ΣPAHs (geometric mean ± SEM) to embryos/larvae that were then raised to juvenile stage or a 24 h exposure of 30 ± 7 μg L(-1) ΣPAHs (geometric mean ± SEM) directly to juveniles resulted in 37% and 22% decreases in critical swimming velocities (Ucrit), respectively. Oil-exposed larvae from the 48 h exposure showed a 4.5-fold increase in the incidence of pericardial and yolk sac edema relative to controls. However, this larval cardiotoxicity did not manifest in a reduced aerobic scope in the surviving juveniles. Instead, respirometric analyses point to a reduction in swimming efficiency as a potential alternative or contributing mechanism for the observed decreases in Ucrit.

Abnormalities in eelpout Zoarces viviparus upon chemical exposure

Elevated frequencies of abnormal embryos in female eelpout Zoarces viviparus have been demonstrated in Danish, Swedish and German monitoring programmes at certain geographic locations with high levels of anthropogenic input. Pollutants present in areas with high malformation frequencies were selected and tested in a controlled laboratory experiment for their potential to induce abnormalities among eelpout embryos upon injection into pregnant eelpout. Tributyltin, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, pyrene, nonylphenol, 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromophenylether and heptadecafluorooctanesulfonic acid were tested, either individually or combined. Generally, the chemicals were transferred to eggs and/or embryos. Some of the exposures increased the proportion of broods with more than 10% abnormal or 5% malformed embryos, although the average percentages of abnormal development were not affected. Spinal, cranial and eye deformities were evident, similarly to what is seen in nature. Some of the exposures resulted in increased percentages of females with as well a low reproductive capacity as embryos with a low condition index.

The ontogeny of New Zealand groper (Polyprion oxygeneios) lymphoid organs and IgM

This study investigates the ontogeny of New Zealand groper (Polyprion oxygeneios) immune system, a new species for aquaculture in the Southern Pacific Ocean. In the eggs, both lysozyme and IgM were detected. Egg IgM was found at 1.07-1.56 μg/g wet weight and consisted of monomers compared to the polymerized IgM found in adult serum. In larvae, the head-kidney (HK) was first observed at 6 dph, followed by the spleen at 16 dph, and thymus at 20 dph, and within these organs IgM(+) cells were first detected in the HK (12 dph), then the spleen (32 dph) and finally in the thymus and the gastrointestinal tract (45 dph). Low levels of Igμ heavy chain transcripts were detected at 2 and 3 dph and they increased at 9 dph. Igμ expression further increased from day 45 onwards. In juveniles (115 dph), the HK and blood showed similar percentages of IgM(+) cells as the adult groper. These results highlight the important maturation steps that occur during the development of the immune system in the marine teleost P. oxygeneios.

Embryonic development in ballan wrasse Labrus bergylta

Eight primary embryonic developmental stages were assigned to eggs of ballan wrasse Labrus bergylta using key morphological features following standardized nomenclature: Ia, Ib, II, III, IV, V, VI and VI+, reared from single family clutches under comparable environmental conditions in Ireland and Norway. Development in L. bergylta is typical of demersal marine finfish species with a short egg stage. Hatching occurred c. 123 h post-fertilization (hpf) equivalent to 62·5 degree days at 12·2 ± 1·10° C (mean ±S.D.), after which the larvae swam intermittently near the surface of the water column.

Early development of New Zealand hapuku Polyprion oxygeneios eggs and larvae

This study describes for the first time the normal development of New Zealand hapuku Polyprion oxygeneios embryos and larvae reared from fertilization to 11 days post-hatch (dph) at a constant temperature. Fertilized eggs were obtained from natural spawnings from communally reared captive wild broodstock. Eggs averaged 2 mm in diameter and had single or multiple oil globules. Embryos developed following the main fish embryological stages and required an average of 1859·50 degree hours post-fertilization (dhpf) to hatch. The newly hatched larvae (4·86 mm mean total length, L(T) ) were undifferentiated, with unpigmented eyes, a single and simple alimentary tube and a finfold that covered the entire body. Larvae relied on the energy from the yolk-sac reserves until 11 dph (7·33 mm mean L(T) ), when yolk-sac reabsorption was almost completed. Some of the major developmental stages from hatching to yolk-sac reabsorption were eye pigmentation (5 dph), upper jaw formation (7 dph), lower jaw formation (8 dph) and mouth opening (8-9 dph). By 9 dph, the digestive system consisted of pancreas, liver, primordial stomach, anterior and posterior gut; therefore, P. oxygeneios larvae would be capable of feeding on live prey. The developmental, morphological and histological data described constitutes essential baseline information on P. oxygeneios biology and normal development.

Toxicity testing of waterborne mercury with red sea bream (Pagrus major) embryos and larvae

Acute toxicity tests revealed that, in red sea bream (Pagrus major) embryos, 24 and 48 h LC(50) values of waterborne HgCl(2) were 67.3 and 39.1 μg Hg(2+) L(-1). In larvae, 48, 72 and 96 h LC(50) values were 41.9, 36.1 and 34.8 μg Hg(2+) L(-1), respectively. Sub-chronic toxicity tests indicated that mercury concentrations ≥20 μg Hg(2+) L(-1) decreased hatching success, increased mortality and induced teratogenicity in embryos and larvae. The NOEC, LOEC and MATC values were 8.0, 16.3 and 11.4 μg Hg(2+) L(-1) for hatching success, mortality and teratogenicity; while those were 27.0, 36.9 and 31.6 μg Hg(2+) L(-1) for body length and specific growth rate, respectively.

Molecular cloning and expression of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) CD8α and CD8β genes

T-cell surface glycoprotein CD8 consists of two distinguished chains, termed α and β chains, and functions as a co-receptor for the T-cell receptor by binding to MHC class I proteins. In this study we report the cloning and identification of both CD8α and CD8β genes from orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). The predicted grouper CD8α and CD8β proteins were structurally similar to other fish especially to those of Pleuronectiformes. Real-time RT-PCR revealed that the CD8 mRNA was much higher in the thymus than in other immune organs, and the expression level were very low in stomach, liver, and brain. During embryonic development of the grouper, the highest CD8 transcripts were detected in the multi-cell stage, followed by muscle burl stage, which suggested that the multi-cell stage may be critical in CD8 transcript synthesis. Moreover, CD8 mRNA levels were examined in lymphocytes at different time treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (PolyI:C), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and concanavalin A (ConA). The result showed that the CD8 mRNA levels were significantly affected in time-dependent manner by PolyI:C, PHA, and ConA, but not by LPS.

Larval connectivity in an effective network of marine protected areas

Acceptance of marine protected areas (MPAs) as fishery and conservation tools has been hampered by lack of direct evidence that MPAs successfully seed unprotected areas with larvae of targeted species. For the first time, we present direct evidence of large-scale population connectivity within an existing and effective network of MPAs. A new parentage analysis identified four parent-offspring pairs from a large, exploited population of the coral-reef fish Zebrasoma flavescens in Hawai'i, revealing larval dispersal distances ranging from 15 to 184 km. In two cases, successful dispersal was from an MPA to unprotected sites. Given high adult abundances, the documentation of any parent-offspring pairs demonstrates that ecologically-relevant larval connectivity between reefs is substantial. All offspring settled at sites to the north of where they were spawned. Satellite altimetry and oceanographic models from relevant time periods indicated a cyclonic eddy that created prevailing northward currents between sites where parents and offspring were found. These findings empirically demonstrate the effectiveness of MPAs as useful conservation and management tools and further highlight the importance of coupling oceanographic, genetic, and ecological data to predict, validate and quantify larval connectivity among marine populations.

Toxicity of parathion on embryo and yolk-sac larvae of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata l.): effects on survival, cholinesterase, and carboxylesterase activity

This study was conducted to examine the acute toxicity of the organophosphorus pesticide (OP) parathion on embryos and yolk-sac larvae of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), and to investigate the effects of this compound on cholinesterase and carboxylesterase activity of seabream larvae in the phase of endogenous feeding. The 72-h LC50 for yolk-sac larvae (0.523 mg L⁻¹) was about two-fold lower than the 48-h LC50 for embryos (1.005 mg L⁻¹). Parathion significantly inhibited the activity of ChE and CaE activity in yolk sac larvae but there were not significant differences in the sensitivity of both esterases to parathion as inferred by their 72-h IC50 values. Larvae exposed to parathion for 72 h showed a 70% inhibition of the whole body acetylcholinesterase at approximately the LC50.

The onset of cortisol synthesis and the stress response is independent of changes in CYP11B or CYP21 mRNA levels in larval red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus)

Although cortisol plays an important role in teleost development, the onset of cortisol production and the cortisol stress response in teleosts remain poorly understood. Here we have reported basal cortisol levels and the development of the cortisol stress response in larval red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus). We isolated partial nucleic acid sequences encoding two key corticosteroidogenic enzymes, CYP11B and CYP21 and assessed ontogenetic patterns of their mRNA levels relative to basal and stress-induced cortisol production. Basal cortisol was first detected 3 days post-hatch (DPH) and reached a maximum at 9 DPH. Cortisol did not increase in response to an acute stressor prior to 6 DPH. From 6 DPH forward, stress caused significant increases in larval cortisol content. Stress-induced cortisol levels in 6-9 DPH larvae were highest 1h post-stress. In larvae 11 DPH and older, the highest cortisol measurements occurred 0.5h post-stress. Elevated cortisol was still evident after 3h in 6 DPH larvae. From 11 DPH onward, basal cortisol levels were reestablished in larvae by 1h post-stress. CYP11B and CYP21 transcripts were detected in red drum 12h prior to hatching and in all post-hatch larvae examined. Changes in CYP11B and CYP21 mRNA levels did not occur in association with the ontogenetic appearance of cortisol, or the onset of the stress response. As larvae developed, the dynamics of the cortisol stress response matured from a low magnitude, slow recovery response, to a response similar to that observed in juvenile and adult fish.

Normal development of the tomato clownfish Amphiprion frenatus: live imaging and in situ hybridization analyses of mesodermal and neurectodermal development

The normal embryonic development of the tomato clownfish Amphiprion frenatus was analysed using live imaging and by in situ hybridization for detection of mesodermal and neurectodermal development. Both morphology of live embryos and tissue-specific staining revealed significant differences in the gross developmental programme of A. frenatus compared with better-known teleost fish models, in particular, initiation of somitogenesis before complete epiboly, initiation of narrowing of the neurectoderm (neurulation) before somitogenesis, relatively early pigmentation of melanophores at the 10-15 somite stage and a distinctive pattern of melanophore distribution. These results suggest evolutionary adaptability of the teleost developmental programme. The ease of obtaining eggs, in vitro culture of the embryo, in situ staining analyses and these reported characteristics make A. frenatus a potentially important model marine fish species for studying embryonic development, physiology, ecology and evolution.

Molecular cloning, tissue distribution and expression profiles of thyroid hormone receptors during embryogenesis in orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides)

Three distinct thyroid hormone receptor (TR) cDNAs (gTRalphaA, gTRalphaB and gTRbeta) were cloned and sequenced in orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). The cDNA of gTRalphaA consisted of 1555-bp and encoded a putative protein of 416 amino acids, while the cDNA of gTRalphaB consisted of 1459-bp and encoded 398 amino acids. The cDNA of gTRbeta is 1470-bp in length and encoded 395 amino acids. The cDNAs of gTRalphaA and gTRalphaB had 68.7% identity in nucleotide sequence and 83.9% identity in deduced amino acid sequence, and shared 57.8%, 57.9% identity in nucleotide sequence and 76.5%, 76.6% in deduced amino acid sequence with gTRbeta, respectively. mRNA expression of gTR was determined by using real-time RT-PCR. The zygotic mRNA expression of gTRalphaA, gTRalphaB and gTRbeta was already presented at the blastula stage, and decreased by gastrulation and body segment appearance. Both gTRalphaA and gTRbeta mRNAs dramatically increased by brain vesicle appearance and lens formation stages, whereas the magnitude of the increase of gTRbeta was higher than that of gTRalphaA. However, gTRalphaB remained relatively constant. All three gTR mRNAs were detected in various tissues of adult fish, with considerable levels found in the pituitary and brain. The expression of gTRalphaA and gTRalphaB was ubiquitous, while the gTRbeta transcription in the pituitary was higher than other tissues. The results suggest that gTRs may be important in adult grouper brain function and that gTRalphaA and gTRalphaB may be important factors in metabolic regulation. In addition, gTRbeta may be the major TR isoform in the regulation of TSH activity by TH feedback in grouper.

Anti-oxidant status in embryonic, post-hatch and larval stages of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer)

The concentrations of anti-oxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGPx), and low molecular weight free-radical scavengers such as reduced glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) were evaluated during the period from gastrulation (GS) to 25 days post-hatch (dph) in the larvae of Asian Seabass, Lates calcarifer. Oxidative damage due to lipid peroxidation (LPO) was also assessed, by evaluation of the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA). All the three anti-oxidant enzymes, SOD, CAT and GPx, showed high activities during gastrulation, suggesting an increased metabolic rate during the period of embryonic development. Though the SOD activity apparently decreased progressively during 3-20 dph of larval development, the difference was not significant. CAT showed high activity during gastrulation and remained constant up to 3 dph, suggesting an increased need to metabolise hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and organic peroxides. In contrast, SeGPx activity increased progressively from 5 dph to 25 dph during larval development, indicating an increased need to detoxify lipid peroxides. This is evident from the observation of increased lipid peroxidation from 10 dph to 25 dph during larval development. GSH levels were low at gastrulation, indicating increased metabolic rate and formation of lipid radicals during this period, corresponding to the decrease in the level of ascorbic acid, which is consumed for regeneration of GSH.

Hypoxia impairs embryo development and survival in black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri)

Coastal environments are threatened by the increasing frequency, extent and severity of hypoxic events. Hypoxia affects vast areas around the world and often causes fish kills, reduced abundance, altered distribution, low benthic biomass and declines in fisheries. In Australia, many fisheries are based on sparid fishes and in the southern states black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) is important to both the recreational and commercial sectors. This species completes its entire life cycle in estuaries and annual recruitment is highly variable and very likely influenced by environmental conditions during the spawning season. In a laboratory-based experiment, fertilised black bream eggs (embryos) were exposed to five different levels of dissolved oxygen (DO). The DO levels were maintained in small test wells using nitrogen gas in a novel chamber design. Embryo development was assessed over a 2-day period and hatched larvae were observed until Day 2 post-hatch. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in embryonic development and survival as a function of DO level. In severely hypoxic conditions (30% saturation) survival to 1 day was reduced and no hatching occurred. In moderately hypoxic conditions (45-55%S), both precocious and delayed hatching was observed and hatch rates were reduced, whilst the number of hatched larvae with deformities increased, resulting in reduced larval lengths. No larvae survived to Day 2 post-hatch when held in hypoxic conditions (<55%S). This study demonstrates the detrimental effect that severe hypoxia can have on the early development of black bream which could result in reduced recruitment and lowered abundance. Other species that share similar early life histories may also be at risk.

Ontogenetic scaling of fish metabolism in the mouse-to-elephant mass magnitude range

Intraspecific or ontogenetic analyses of mass-metabolism relationships do not often conform to the same allometric correlations as those seen in interspecific analyses. A commonly cited reason for this discrepancy is that ontogenetic studies examine smaller mass ranges than interspecific studies, and are therefore not statistically comparable. In this study the metabolic rate of yellowtail kingfish was measured from 0.6 mg-2.2 kg, a mass range comparable to that between a mouse and an elephant. Linear regression of the log transformed data resulted in a scaling exponent of 0.90 and high correlation coefficient. Statistical and information theory comparisons of three other models showed that a segmented linear regression and curvilinear quadratic function were an improvement over a simple linear regression. This confirmed previous observations that the metabolic scaling exponent of fish changes during ontogeny. Ammonia excretion rates were also measured and scaled linearly with an exponent of 0.87. The data showed that the metabolism of yellowtail kingfish during ontogeny did not scale with the commonly cited 2/3 or 3/4 mass exponent. This demonstrates that differences between interspecific and ontogenetic allometries are not necessarily statistical artefacts.

When two equals three: developmental osteology and homology of the caudal skeleton in carangid fishes (Perciformes: Carangidae)

Ontogeny often provides the most compelling evidence for primary homology in evolutionary developmental studies and is critical to interpreting complex structures in a phylogenetic context. As an example of this, we document the ontogenetic development of the caudal skeleton of Caranx crysos by examining a series of cleared and stained larval and postlarval specimens. By studying ontogeny, we are able to more accurately identify some elements of the adult caudal skeleton than is possible when studying the adult stage alone. The presence of two epurals has been used as a synapomorphy of Caranginae (homoplastically present in the scomberoidine genera Scomberoides and Oligoplites). Here we find that three epurals (ep) are present in larvae and small postlarval juveniles (i.e.,<25 mm standard length [SL]) of C. crysos and other carangines, but ep2 never ossifies and does not develop beyond its initial presence. Ep2 was last observed in a 33.6 mm SL specimen as a small nodule of very lightly stained cartilage cells and eventually disappears completely. Therefore, the two epurals present in the adult are ep1 and ep3. In other carangines examined (e.g., Selene, Selar), the rudimentary ep2 ossifies and appears to fuse to the proximal tip of ep1. In these taxa, therefore, the two epurals of the adult appear to be ep1+2 and ep3. We found no indication of three epurals at any stage in the development of Oligoplites (developmental material of Scomberoides was unavailable). We discuss the osteology of the caudal skeleton of carangoid fishes generally and emphasize the power and importance of ontogeny in the identification of primary homology.

Orientation behaviour of Pagrus major larvae exposed to UV-B radiation in laboratory conditions

PURPOSE

The increasing intensity of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation is a potential threat to the aquatic environment. The recognition capacity of the aquatic animals may help them to avoid this harmful radiation. The response of individual species, especially during early development may help to understand the vulnerability of that species and its potentiality in natural fishery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The orientation behaviour of red sea bream Pagrus major larvae exposed to UV-B radiation (280-315 nm) was studied within the laboratory (1.41 W/m(2)) under following experimental conditions: (i) two fluorescent lamps fixed above the tank, (ii) one fluorescent lamp on the left side, one fluorescent lamp and one UV-B lamp on the right side, and (iii) one UV-B lamp and one fluorescent lamp on the left side, one fluorescent lamp on the right side of the tank.

RESULTS

In the first treatment, 7- and 20-day-old larvae were significantly (p < 0.0095) higher in number at the right side than left and middle regions of the tank. Some 33-60% of larvae were found in the middle region of the tank at the age of 30-32 days. In the second treatment, significantly (p 5 0.0034) lower numbers of larvae (10-13.3%) were found in the middle region of the tank compared to the other sides between days 17 and 20, whereas 40- 86.67% larvae were found in the middle region between days 25 and 36. In the third treatment, significantly (p < 0.015) higher numbers of larvae were found in the right side at the age of days 17-25 and in the middle region between days 32 and 36.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that UV-B sensitivity of P. major developed during ontogenic development. Care should be taken at early stages.

[Convergence of early ontogeneses of the teleostean fish Neogobius melanostomus (Perciformes, Gobiidae) and higher vertebrates]

In the teleostean fish round goby with nonlarval type of development (Anamnia) and even-toed mammals pig and sheep (Amniota), the processes of digestion during early ontogenesis are similar, which is correlated with the parental care and embryonization of development.

MOTHERS MATTER: CROWDING LEADS TO STRESSED MOTHERS AND SMALLER OFFSPRING IN MARINE FISH

Most marine populations are sustained by the entry of juveniles that have survived the larval phase, during which time most die. The number of survivors depends strongly on the quality of the eggs produced by spawning females, but it is not known how the social conditions under which breeding occurs influence the quality of larvae produced. Here I show that the density of females interacting with breeding mothers directly influences the size of larvae produced, through a stress-related mechanism. On the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, breeding pairs of a damselfish, Pomacentrus amboinensis, were isolated on habitat patches, and additional females that could not access the spawning site were added at four densities (0, 1, 3, or 6 females). Additional females increased aggressive interactions by mothers and increased the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in their ovaries, leading to reduced larval size. Neither egg output nor yolk size of the larvae was influenced by female density. Pairs breeding in isolation produced the largest larvae; current theory suggests that these larvae should contribute most to subsequent population replenishment events. This social mechanism may influence which females effectively contribute to the next generation and may promote resilience in patchy or isolated populations.

Current Status of Genetic and Endocrine Factors in the Sex Change of Protandrous Black Porgy, Acanthopagrus schlegeli (Teleostean)

Black porgy, Acanthopagrus schlegeli Bleeker, a marine protandrous hermaphrodite fish, is functionally male for the first 2 years of life, but begins to sexually change to female after the third year. Testicular tissue and ovarian tissue are separated by connective tissue in the bisexual gonad. This sex pattern provides a unique model to study the mechanism of sex change in fish. The annual profiles of plasma estradiol, vitellogenin, and 11-ketotestosterone concentrations in males were significantly different from those in the 3-year-old females. Oral administration of estradiol stimulated high levels of gonadal aromatase activity, plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, and sex change in the 2-year-old fish. Oral administration with aromatase inhibitors for 1 year further blocked the natural sex change in 3-year-old black porgy and all fish became functional males. Transcripts of estrogen receptor (ER), androgen receptor, and gonadotropin receptors in the ovarian tissue of bisexual gonad were significantly less expressed than those in the bisexual testicular tissue. ER and aromatase transcripts were much higher in the vitellogenic ovary than those in the bisexual ovarian tissue. Plasma LH levels were higher in male fish than sex-changing fish during postspawning and nonspawning season in 2(+)-year-old black porgy. We are also conducting investigations on the role of the genetic factors (Dmrt 1, Sox 9, Sf-1, and Dax-1) in sex development and sex change. An endocrine mechanism of sex change in black porgy is proposed.

IgM secretion and absorption in the materno-fetal interface of a viviparous teleost, Neoditrema ransonneti (Perciformes; Embiotocidae)

We investigated maternal IgM secretion in the ovary and the absorption of IgM by fetuses in a viviparous fish, Neoditrema ransonneti (Embiotocidae). Serum IgM, whose molecular weight was approx. 820k, was purified by two steps of gel filtration chromatography. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting revealed that IgM was secreted from the epithelia of the ovigerous lamellae of pregnant females into ovarian cavity fluid. The IgM-secreting activity of ovigerous folds showed notable changes according to the reproductive stage. In fetuses, IgM was absorbed as macromolecules by enterocytes of the hypertrophied hindgut. IgM in the fetal blood was also demonstrated, although its concentration remained low during gestation. These findings suggest that IgM was transported from the maternal tissues to embryos via a unique pathway in N. ransonneti.

Gonadal morphogenesis and sex differentiation in intraovarian embryos of the viviparous fishZoarces viviparus (Teleostei, Perciformes, Zoarcidae): A histological and ultrastructural study

It is essential to know the timing and process of normal gonadal differentiation and development in the specific species being investigated in order to evaluate the effect of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals on these processes. In the present study gonadal sex differentiation and development were investigated in embryos of a viviparous species of marine fish, the eelpout, Zoarces viviparus, during their intraovarian development (early September to January) using light and electron microscopy. In both sexes of the embryos at the time of hatching (September 20) the initially undifferentiated paired bilobed gonad contains primordial germ cells. In the female embryos, ovarian differentiation, initiated 14 days posthatch (dph), is characterized by the initial formation of the endoovarian cavity of the single ovary as well as by the presence of some early meiotic oocytes in a chromatin-nucleolus stage. By 30 dph, the endoovarian cavity has formed. By 44 dph and onward, the ovary and the oocytes grow in size and at 134 dph, just prior to birth, the majority of the oocytes are at the perinucleolar stage of primary growth and definitive follicles have formed. In the presumptive bilobed testis of the male embryos, the germ cells (spermatogonia), in contrast to the germ cells of the ovary, remain quiescent and do not enter meiosis during intraovarian development. However, other structural (somatic) changes, such as the initial formation of the sperm duct (30 dph), the presence of blood vessels in the stromal areas of the testis (30 dph), and the appearance of developing testicular lobules (102 dph), indicate testicular differentiation. Ultrastructually, the features of the primordial germ cells, oogonia, and spermatogonia are similar, including nuage, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi complexes.

Polygenic expression of somatostatin in orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides): molecular cloning and distribution of the mRNAs encoding three somatostatin precursors

In the present study, three preprosomatostatin (PSS) cDNAs were characterized from hypothalamus of orange-spotted grouper Epinephelus coioides. The first cDNA encodes a 123-amino acid protein (PSSI) that contains the SS14 sequence at its C-terminal extremity and that is identical to that of PSSI of human and other vertebrates. The second cDNA encodes a 127-amino acid protein (PSSII) that contains the SS28 sequence with [Tyr7, Gly10]-SS14 at its C-terminus. The third cDNA encodes a 110-amino acid protein (PSSIII) that contains the somatostatin variant [Pro2]-SS14 at its C-terminal extremity. All these three PSS mRNAs were expressed in brain and pituitary with different mRNA levels. In peripheral tissues, PSSII was more widely distributed than PSSI and PSSIII. High mRNA levels of PSS were found in stomach, intestine and ovary. PSS mRNAs were detected throughout embryogeny and early larval development. Its levels increased with the embryonic development and maintained a higher level during larva developing. The mRNA distribution suggests that the three grouper PSS products play important physiological functions in adult fish as well as in cell growth and organ differentiation in embryo and larva development.

The ontogeny of complement component C3 in the spotted wolffish (Anarhichas minor Olafsen)

Eggs and larvae from the spotted wolffish (Anarhichas minor Olafsen) were analysed to study the ontogeny of the complement component C3. By Western blotting experiments, the results revealed that C3 was present already in unfertilised eggs and that there was a decrease in C3 content towards hatch, whereas the results using reverse transcription-polymerase chain-reaction showed a continuous increase of C3 mRNA content towards hatch. These findings indicate a transfer of maternal complement component C3 to the offspring where the content of C3 decreases and the level of C3 mRNA increases towards hatch. Immunohistochemical experiments revealed that only the liver of spotted wolffish larvae contained complement component C3, suggesting that the liver is the main site of production.

Embryogenesis and oxygen consumption in benthic egg clutches of a tropical clownfish, Amphiprion melanopus (Pomacentridae)

Variation in size at hatching is common in demersal spawning organisms, suggesting that processes during embryonic development may be critical in determining growth and development. To examine critical periods during embryonic development in the demersal spawning reef fish Amphiprion melanopus, the rate of oxygen consumption within an egg clutch was compared to morphological changes in the embryos. Oxygen consumption was least on day 1 of development where organ differentiation had not begun (mean 1.73+/-0.34x10(-5) micromol O(2) egg(-1) s(-1)). Tail movement throughout the perivitelline fluid began on day 3 and is likely to assist in moving oxygen around the embryo, complementing diffusive transport. The appearance of haemoglobin in the blood corresponded to a peak in oxygen consumption on day 4, where the highest mean rate of oxygen consumption was recorded (6.73+/-0.82x10(-5) micromol O(2) egg(-1) s(-1)). This could be a critical period in development whereby risk of mortality is increased through increased embryo requirements at developmental thresholds.

The germ line lineage in ukigori, Gymnogobius species (Teleostei: Gobiidae) during embryonic development

In order to determine the origin and migration of ukigori primordial germ cells (PGCs), we observed the aggregation of vasa mRNA by whole mount in situ hybridization. To observe PGC migration in the germ layers, we analyzed HE-stained paraffin sections. The germ line lineages were derived from the edge of the first, second and third cleavage furrows. During subsequent cleavages, vasa mRNA aggregations were respectively taken into four to eight cells in each embryo and vasa expressing cells proliferated from the sphere stage. At the bud to early somitogenesis period, PGCs aligned from head to tail bud regions on both sides of the embryonic body. During the late somitogenesis period, PGCs mainly aggregated just underneath the body axis. After gut formation, PGCs aligned along both sides of the gut at the 4th- to 8th- somite regions. Finally, PGCs reached the genital ridge via the inside of the lateral plate mesoderm and dorsal peritoneum. These results suggest that localized patterns of vasa transcripts and the migration routes of PGCs are different among fish (Teleost) species, perhaps depending on the amount of germinal cytoplasm derived maternally and the timing of endoderm differentiation.

Consumption of coral propagules after mass spawning enhances larval quality of damselfish through maternal effects

The synchronized spawning of corals in many parts of the Indo-Pacific represents a huge injection of biological material into the waters around reefs. Much of this material is consumed by fishes and filter-feeding invertebrates in the 5 or so days following spawning. The present study is the first to document the effect of the consumption of coral propagules on a population of facultatively planktivorous fish and the transference of physiological condition across generations. The study compares two populations of the damselfish Pomacentrus amboinensis that fed to differing degrees on coral propagules for 5 days after the annual mass spawning of corals at Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Wind blew coral slicks over the outer lagoon to the inner lagoon some 1.5 km away. While coral propagules were abundant in the water column in the windward location, they were scarce by the time the water mass reached the inner lagoon. Behavioral observations 2-5 days after coral spawning showed that a significantly higher proportion of P. amboinensis was feeding on coral propagules in the windward location than in the inner lagoon location. Windward location females consumed coral propagules almost exclusively and had fuller guts than females from the inner lagoonal location. Five days after the mass coral spawning, windward location females had a higher condition factor and a larger liver mass relative to body mass compared to females within the inner lagoon or females from both locations 2 months later. Fish eggs laid by the windward location females soon after coral spawning yielded larvae that had 25% larger yolk sacs and 100% larger oil globules than did larvae produced from the females from the inner lagoon location, or larvae produced at either location prior to or well after coral spawning in 2 previous years. Larger yolk sacs and oil globules have been shown to have direct survival benefits in the transition from endogenous to exogenous feeding. A feeding experiment conducted on patch reefs showed that diet supplementation of breeding females with a high lipid food for just 5 min per day was sufficient to significantly increase yolk-sac sizes of newly hatched larvae. Evidence suggests that females gain a fitness advantage from feeding on coral spawn and that this is passed on to their offspring.

Unequal distribution of otx1 mRnas among cleavage stage blastomeres in the teleost, Leucopsarion petersii (shiro-uo)

The otx genes belong to the orthodenticle gene family and play important roles in anterior brain development in vertebrates. We isolated two cDNA sequences, one homologous to human and zebrafish otxl and another homologous to zebrafish otx3, from the teleost Leucopsarion petersii (shiro-uo), which belongs to the family of gobies in the Perciformes. During embryogenesis of shiro-uo, otx1 and otx3 were expressed in the fore- and mid-brain throughout development in a manner similar to that observed in other vertebrates so far studied. However, otx-1 mRNA was also present at earlier stages and we obtained unique results using in situ hybridization and RT-PCR analysis demonstrating that otx-1 signals showed a distinct increase in the upper blastomeres, but not in the lower blastomeres, at the 8-cell stage. These stronger signals were maintained in the animal pole blastomeres during the 16-cell to 64-cell stages, followed by a gradual decrease during blastula stages. Such unexpected unequal distribution of otx1 mRNA revealed that blastomeres at early cleavage stages already showed non-equivalence in the embryogenesis of shiro-uo.

Effects of waterborne exposure of octylphenol and oestrogen on pregnant viviparous eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) and her embryos in ovario

Exposure to oestrogenic chemicals (xeno-oestrogens) may have severe effects on embryonic development. The present study investigates whether the oestrogenic endocrine disruptor 4-tert-octylphenol (4-tOP) or 17β-oestradiol (E2) is accumulated in the viviparous fish the eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) and transferred to the embryos in ovario and subsequently affects embryonic development, including gonadal differentiation. Pregnant eelpouts were exposed to nominal concentrations of 25 μgl-1 or 100 μgl-1 4-tOP (OP25 or OP100,respectively) or 0.5 μgl-1 E2 in water. During 4-tOP exposure, the compound accumulated in both plasma and ovarian fluid in a concentration-dependent manner. In the mother fish, the oestrogenic biomarkers, vitellogenin (Vtg) in plasma, Vtg mRNA in liver and oestrogen-binding activity in liver, were all induced by 4-tOP (and by E2) at an actual concentration of 14 μgl-1. E2 and 4-tOP were examined for their potency to disturb the maternal—foetal trophic relationship by disturbing the physiology of the ovary and by changing the distribution of essential nutrients normally transported to embryos during pregnancy. After exposure to E2 or 4-tOP, calcium was depleted from the ovarian fluid and the level of free amino acids available in maternal plasma was decreased. A marked overall effect on ovarian components, including the ovarian sac, ovarian fluid and embryonic mass, was evident. Embryonic growth was significantly decreased, which might in part be attributed to disturbances of the maternal—foetal trophic relationship. Marked inductions of Vtg mRNA and Vtg protein, determined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively, were found in embryos from the OP100 group — the only group to show considerable accumulation of an oestrogenic compound in the ovarian fluid. A different pattern of gonadal development was found in embryos from the OP100 group compared with embryos from the control, OP25 or E2 groups, in which approximately 50% had normal ovaries and 50% had normal presmptive male gonads. In the OP100 group,46% had normal ovaries but, in contrast to controls, only 22% had normal presumptive male gonads, whereas the remaining 32% had abnormal male gonads with structures resembling the endo-ovarian cavity of a female gonad. As oestrogen receptor (ER) expression was detected by in situhybridisation in early differentiating gonads, these effects could be mediated by direct interaction of the xeno-oestrogens with gonadal ER. In conclusion,this study indicates that the xeno-oestrogen 4-tOP can be transferred from the water via the mother fish to the ovarian fluid and can subsequently disturb the maternal—foetal trophic relationship and cause severe effects on embryonic development, including gonadal differentiation in ovario.

Influence of cortisol on developmental rhythms during embryogenesis in a tropical damselfish

Newly-spawned teleost eggs can vary widely in their maternal endowment of a variety of hormones, including cortisol. Field and laboratory experiments have shown that initial egg cortisol concentrations directly influence the size at hatching of the benthic spawning damselfish, Pomacentrus amboinensis. The present study examines the mechanism by which cortisol influences larval size at hatching by investigating the growth and developmental rhythms throughout embryogenesis. Newly spawned eggs of P. amboinensis were collected from natural benthic nests, and half of each clutch was incubated in a moderate level of cortisol (2.7 x 10(-6) M, equivalent to a concentration of 0.79 pg/egg). Cortisol was found to have no affect on the rate of cell-pulsations up to epiboly (18 hr post-fertilization), with cells pulsing at a mean rate of 56-60 pulses/min. Cortisol had an affect on the relative growth rate from the start of gastrulation to knot formation. Growth in the cortisol-supplemented embryos was pulsed, with periods of fast growth punctuated by long periods of stasis. Overall growth rates during this period were lower in the cortisol-supplemented embryos despite their higher growth during active periods. Pulse rates of somite cells and contraction rhythms of myotomes and the heart were twice as high in cortisol-supplemented embryos than controls. Despite this, cortisol-supplemented eggs developed at the same rate as controls and hatched at the same time. This study suggests that the maternal endowment of cortisol to eggs plays a vital role in determining the embryonic rhythms by which embryos grow and may be directly influencing metabolism.

Effects of an environmental estrogen, 17alpha-ethinyl-estradiol, on the maternal-fetal trophic relationship in the eelpout Zoarces viviparus (L)

In the present experiment pregnant eelpout Zoarces viviparus females were exposed to 0, 5, 10, 50, 500 ng/l of the synthetic estrogen ethinylestradiol (EE2) and to 500 ng/l estradiol-17beta (E2) under flow-through conditions during 3 weeks and the maternal-fetal trophic response was investigated. The circulating yolk-precursor protein vitellogenin, measured by ELISA, increased from a mean control value of 0.017-36 mg/ml in the plasma of the motherfish exposed to the highest concentration of EE2 This increase in vitellogenin was also depicted by a 288% increase in circulating calcium levels. During pregnancy the ovary represents a new route of calcium loss from the maternal blood for the growth of the embryos. However, a significant decrease (120% in the group exposed to the highest concentration of EE2) in the calcium level in the ambient medium of the embryos, the ovarian fluid, was observed concomitant with the increase in maternal plasma calcium in the EE2-exposed females. In contrast, the level of circulating amino acids decreased in the maternal blood, with a slight concomitant increase in the ovarian fluid of the exposed fish. These and other metabolic observations indicate that exposure to different doses of EE2 and to estradiol-17beta affects the maternal-fetal trophic relationship.