Astyanax surface and cave fish morphs

The small teleost fish has emerged as an outstanding model for studying many biological topics in the context of evolution. A major attribute is conspecific surface dwelling (surface fish) and blind cave dwelling (cavefish) morphs that can be raised in the laboratory and spawn large numbers of trans...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:EvoDevo 2020-07, Vol.11 (1), p.14-10, Article 14
Main Author: Jeffery, William R
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Albinism
Analysis
Animal behavior
Apoptosis
Astyanax
Astyanax mexicanus
Asymmetry
Behavior
Cavefish
Caves
Development
Embryonic development
Embryos
Evolution
Evolution (Biology)
Gene manipulation
Genes
Genetic analysis
Genetic approach
Genetic engineering
Genomes
Hybridization
Hypothalamus
Laboratories
Medical research
Mutation
Pigmentation
Quantitative genetics
Quantitative trait loci
Review
Surface fish
Transplantation
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Summary:The small teleost fish has emerged as an outstanding model for studying many biological topics in the context of evolution. A major attribute is conspecific surface dwelling (surface fish) and blind cave dwelling (cavefish) morphs that can be raised in the laboratory and spawn large numbers of transparent and synchronously developing embryos. More than 30 cavefish populations have been discovered, mostly in northeastern Mexico, and some are thought to have evolved independently from surface fish ancestors, providing excellent models of parallel and convergent evolution. Cavefish have evolved eye and pigmentation regression, as well as modifications in brain morphology, behaviors, heart regenerative capacity, metabolic processes, and craniofacial organization. Thus, the model provides researchers with natural "mutants" to study life in the challenging cave environment. The application of powerful genetic approaches based on hybridization between the two morphs and between the different cavefish populations are key advantages for deciphering the developmental and genetic mechanisms regulating trait evolution. QTL analysis has revealed the genetic architectures of gained and lost traits. In addition, some cavefish traits resemble human diseases, offering novel models for biomedical research. research is supported by genome assemblies, transcriptomes, tissue and organ transplantation, gene manipulation and editing, and stable transgenesis, and benefits from a welcoming and interactive research community that conducts integrated community projects and sponsors the International Astyanax Meeting (AIM).
ISSN:2041-9139
2041-9139
DOI:10.1186/s13227-020-00159-6