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Thermal variability induces sex-specific morphometric changes in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
A G Grigg1, T M Lowi-Merri2, J A Hutchings1,3,4
1Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Journal of Fish Biology
|September 8, 2023
Summary
Environmental temperature fluctuations impact zebrafish (Danio rerio) development. Early life exposure to variable temperatures alters adult body shape, with males showing improved body condition when exposed throughout life.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Organisms face environmental variability, yet responses to fluctuating temperatures are poorly understood.
- Understanding thermal plasticity is crucial for predicting organismal fitness in changing climates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how diel thermal fluctuations during different life stages affect zebrafish (Danio rerio) adult body shape, size, and condition.
- To determine the influence of the timing of thermal variability exposure on phenotypic plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized geometric morphometric methods to analyze body shape and size.
- Exposed zebrafish to fluctuating (22-32°C) or static (27°C) temperatures during specific ontogenetic periods (early, late, or lifelong).
Main Results:
- Thermal variability significantly affected body shape, size, and condition, with effects dependent on the timing of exposure.
- Early exposure to fluctuating temperatures resulted in sex-specific shape changes: deeper abdomens in females and elongated caudal peduncles in males.
- Males exhibited improved body condition under lifelong fluctuating temperatures, while females did not show this acclimation benefit.
Conclusions:
- The timing of exposure to thermal fluctuations during ontogeny critically influences phenotypic plasticity in zebrafish.
- Ecologically realistic thermal regimes reveal stage-specific developmental responses and sex-dependent acclimation to environmental variability.
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