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Keystone predation and molecules of keystone significance
Richard K Zimmer1,2, Graham A Ferrier1, Steven J Kim3
1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, 90095, USA.
Ecology
|April 5, 2017
Summary
Sea stars use a specific chemical cue, KEYSTONEin, secreted by mussels, to locate and prey on them. This discovery reveals the sensory mechanism behind a crucial predator-prey interaction that shapes marine ecosystems.
Area of Science:
- Marine Ecology
- Chemical Ecology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Keystone species significantly influence ecological community structure and biodiversity.
- Sensory mechanisms driving keystone species interactions are not fully understood.
- Sea star predation on mussels is a model for trophic cascades.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the chemosensory cue responsible for sea star predation on mussels.
- To elucidate the molecular basis of this keystone interaction.
- To understand the evolutionary origins of the identified cue.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and characterization of glycoprotein orthologues secreted by mussels (Mytilus californianus and M. galloprovincialis).
- Localization studies of the identified molecules within mussel tissues and shell.
- Nucleotide sequencing and homology analysis of the identified proteins within the Complement Component 1 Domain Containing (C1qDC) family.
Main Results:
- Identified mussel glycoproteins, named KEYSTONEin, that trigger sea star predatory responses.
- KEYSTONEin molecules are found in mussel epidermis, extrapallial fluid, and periostracum, contacting sea star tube feet.
- Sequencing revealed KEYSTONEin shares homology with calcium-binding proteins, suggesting roles in immunity and biomineralization before prey recognition.
Conclusions:
- KEYSTONEin is the first identified chemical cue mediating keystone predation by sea stars.
- This molecule evolved from immunological/biomineralization functions to a prey recognition cue.
- Understanding KEYSTONEin is crucial for comprehending marine biodiversity, community structure, and trophic dynamics.
Keywords:
Mytilus californianusMytilus galloprovincialisPisaster ochraceuschemical cuecommunity ecologyfoundation speciesglycoproteinintertidal ecologykeystone predationmusselsea starsensory ecologyMore Related Videos
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