Diversity of lateral line patterns and neuromast numbers in the genus Oryzias

A remarkable diversity of lateral line patterns exists in adult teleost fishes, the basis of which is largely unknown. By analysing the lateral line patterns and organ numbers in 29 Oryzias species and strains we report a rapid diversification of the lateral line system within this genus. We show a strong dependence of lateral line elaboration (number of neuromasts per cluster, number of parallel lateral lines) on adult species body size irrespective of phylogenetic relationships. In addition, we report that the degree of elaboration of the anterior lateral line, posterior lateral line and caudal neuromast clusters is tightly linked within species, arguing for a globally coordinated mechanism controlling lateral line organ numbers and patterns. We provide evidence for a polygenic control over neuromast numbers and positioning in the genus Oryzias. Our data also indicate that the diversity in lateral lines can arise as a result of differences in patterning both during embryonic development and post-embryonically, where simpler embryonic patterns generate less complex adult patterns and organ numbers, arguing for a linkage between the two processes.