Conference Paper
Astroblepus pholeter: Convergent regressive evolution of the mc1r gene in cavefish species
Robinson, J., Kopp, J., Finocchiaro, A. and Espinasa, L.
Record Number:
3269
Year:
2017
Journal:
AIM 2017
Abstract:
Jumandi cave is home to Ecuador’s most charismatic troglobite, the
catfish Astroblepus pholeter. It was defined as “essentially unpigmented” and published photos
show yellow-white specimens. However, specimens we collected in 2016 do show pigmentation
throughout the body, unlike the previously published photos. It is unknown if previous authors
took photos with high contrast to create an enhanced image, collected a particularly unpigmented
specimen, or if there has been introgression from surface fish.
Since A. pholeter is not albino, we sequenced the MC1R gene. In mammals, MC1R variants result
in red hair with light skin color due to low concentrations of eumelanin. Two mutations were found
in ultra-conserved regions. Interestingly, the first locus has been discussed in the literature
regarding pigmentation in felids, suggesting a functional consequence for the A. pholeter mutation.
MC1R has also been the target of mutations in the regressive evolution of Astyanax cavefish. We
propose convergent regressive evolution of the MC1R gene across cavefish species.
The species was also portrayed with an unusual mechanosensory cave adaptation. The authors
reported an increase in number of mechanosensory skin denticles along the dorsal surface of the
head and trunk that could detect the direction of water flow and the proximity to the substrate by
changes in fluid velocity. However, comparisons to the local surface loricarioid catfish show that
A. pholeter actually has fewer denticles throughout its head and body than the local surface species.
Behaviorally, A. pholeter can detect light and presents nyctophilia, a preference for darkness.
Histology of the eye showed that despite reduction in overall size and the eye being embedded
under the skin, A. pholeter has conserved all of the major components of the eye; lens, optic nerve,
and all retinal layers. While dermal layers may blur images, the eyes are most likely functional.
Times Cited:
1
Relevent Species:
Related Records:
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IVe Memoire, sur une nouvelle espece de Pimelode, jetee par les volcans du Royaume de Quito
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