From hatching to juvenile: Larval development of Vieja fenestrata (Teleostei: Cichlidae).

This study delves into the early development of Vieja fenestrata (Cichlidae), with a specific focus on the description of external morphological and morphometric changes, and growth patterns from hatching to the loss of larval characters under controlled laboratory conditions at a temperature of 28°C. Asynchronous hatching was observed between 58 and 60 h postfertilization, with the posterior body emerging first. Over 14 days, significant morphological, physiological, and behavioral changes were observed, revealing a complex developmental trajectory. The initial developmental phases were characterized by rapid vascularization, fin differentiation, and heightened activity, and the subsequent days witnessed the flexion of the notochord, emergence of swim bladder functionality, and transition to exogenous feeding. Maturation progressed with the absorption of the yolk sac, regression of cement glands, and fin ray development, culminating in metamorphosis by 14 days post-hatching. Throughout this period, evolving pigmentation patterns and structural adaptations highlight the species' adaptive strategies. During the larval period of V. fenestrata, substantial changes in morphological proportions were observed. Before the inflection, tail length, trunk length, and body depth had negative allometric growth, and head length, eye diameter, and snout length had positive allometric growth. After the inflection, body depth and snout length showed positive allometric growth; head length and trunk length exhibited isometric growth, whereas tail length and eye diameter demonstrated negative allometric growth. These findings contribute insights into the intricate developmental dynamics of V. fenestrata. Moreover, further research may explore these developmental dynamics' ecological and evolutionary implications.

Hematoimmunological responses of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) receiving the dietary supplementation of immunomodulators and different levels of vitamins after challenge with physical stress.

In this study, we analyzed the hematoimmunological effects of dietary supplementation with immunomodulators (ß-glucans + nucleotides) and different levels of vitamins on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after exposure to physical stress. The following four diet treatments were used: diets with indicated vitamin levels (Vitind), diets with Vitind + immunomodulator (Vitind + Immune), diets with high vitamin content (Vithigh), and those with Vithigh + immunomodulator (Vithigh + Immune). The experiment included 560 fish in 28 tanks (20 fish tank-1), with seven replicates per treatment. After 60 days of supplementation, the water temperature was set at 20 °C, and complete biometrics were performed. The animals were then subjected to physical stress with temperature oscillations of 20 ºC to 30 ºC/30 ºC to 20 ºC/20 ºC to 30 ºC. Hematoimmunological data from 140 animals were collected post-stress. Antimicrobial titer and total plasma protein levels were significantly higher in fish not receiving immunomodulator-supplemented diets (2.88 ± 0.43 log2 and 26.81 ± 4.01 mg∙mL-1, respectively) than in those that did. Conversely, the agglutination titer increased in fish fed with lower vitamin levels (3.33 ± 0.66 log2) compared to those with higher vitamin levels. Increased immunoglobulin levels were observed in fish fed diets co-supplemented with vitamins and immunomodulators, revealing an interaction between immunomodulators and dietary vitamin levels. In summary, the inclusion of immunomodulators in the diet enhanced the animals' resistance to physical stress and improved hematoimmunological parameters. Additionally, a high vitamin content in the diet did not modulate the immune responses in the animals.

Neste estudo analisamos os efeitos hematoimunológicos da suplementação dietética com imunomoduladores (ß-glucanos+nucleotídeos) e diferentes níveis de vitaminas na tilápia do Nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) após exposição ao estresse físico. Foram utilizados quatro tratamentos: dietas com níveis indicados de vitaminas (Vitind), dietas com Vitind + imunomodulador (Vitind+Immune), dietas com alto teor de vitaminas (Vithigh) e dietas com Vithigh + imunomodulador (Vithigh+Immune). O experimento incluiu 560 peixes em 28 tanques (20 peixes tanques-1), com sete repetições por tratamento. Após 60 dias de suplementação, a temperatura da água foi fixada em 20 °C e realizada biometria completa. Os animais foram submetidos a estresse físico com oscilações de temperatura de 20 ºC a 30 ºC/30 ºC a 20 ºC/20 ºC a 30 ºC. Dados hematoimunológicos de 140 animais foram coletados pós-estresse. O título antimicrobiano e os níveis de proteína plasmática total foram significativamente maiores em peixes que não receberam dietas com imunomodulador (2,88±0,43 log2 e 26,81±4,01 mg∙mL−1) do que naqueles que receberam. Por outro lado, o título de aglutinação aumentou em peixes alimentados com níveis mais baixos de vitaminas (3,33±0,66 log2) comparado àqueles com níveis mais elevados. Níveis aumentados de imunoglobulinas foram observados em peixes alimentados com dietas co-suplementadas com vitaminas e imunomoduladores, revelando interação entre imunomoduladores e níveis de vitaminas na dieta. Em resumo, a inclusão de imunomoduladores na dieta aumentou a resistência dos animais ao estresse físico e melhorou os parâmetros hematoimunológicos. Além disso, o alto teor de vitaminas na dieta não modulou as respostas imunológicas dos animais.

Trematodes and acanthocephalans associated with the yellow mojarra (Caquetaia kraussii) in a coastal lagoon system, San Onofre, Colombia / Tremátodos y acantocéfalos asociados a mojarra amarilla (Caquetaia kraussii) en un sistema de laguna costera, San Onofre, Colombia

ABSTRACT In Colombia, ichthyozoonoses caused by helminths are little studied and remain neglected by the public health sector, representing an interaction to be explored regarding biodiversity and health. Caquetia kraussii is a native fish of Colombia and Venezuela that is economically important due to its high consumption by local communities. This research records the fauna of parasitic helminths associated with C. kraussii in a coastal lagoon system in the Colombian Caribbean. Thirty-two specimens of C. kraussii were captured and inspected in February and December 2020, resulting in the collection of 242 helminths at the metacercariae stage and adults. Parasites included metacercaria of the trematodes Clinostomum sp., Austrodiplostomum sp., two forms of Posthodiplostomum and adults of Oligogonotylus andinus, and adults of the acanthocephalan Neoechinorhynchus sp. These results indicate that C. kraussii acts as a definitive host for O. andinus and Neoechinorhynchus sp., and as an intermediate host for Clinostomum sp., Posthodiplostomum spp. and Austrodiplostomum sp. This research reports for the second time a population of O. andinus in Colombia and the occurrence of a morphoespecies of the genus Neoechinorhynchus that could constitute a new record for Colombia. In addition to contributing to the knowledge of the diversity of fish-associated helminths, the results of this research will make it possible to generate recommendations for the management and control of helminthiasis in artificial fish farming systems that are supplied by natural tributaries, and favor the establishment of hosts and parasites.

RESUMEN En Colombia, las ictiozoonosis causadas por helmintos son poco estudiadas y permanecen desatendidas desde el sector de la salud pública, representando una interacción por explorar en términos de biodiversidad y salud. Caquetia kraussii es un pez nativo de Colombia y Venezuela de importancia económica, debido a su alto consumo por parte de comunidades locales. Esta investigación registra la fauna de helmintos parásitos asociados a C. kraussii en un sistema de laguna costera en el Caribe colombiano. En febrero y diciembre de 2020 se examinaron 32 especímenes de C. kraussii, de los que se recolectaron 242 helmintos en los estadíos de metacercaria y adulto. Los parásitos incluyeron metacercarias de los tremátodos Clinostomum sp., Austrodiplostomum sp., dos morfoespecies de Posthodiplostomum spp. y adultos de Oigogonotylus andinus además de adultos del acantocéfalo (Eoacanthocephala) Neoechinorhynchus sp. Estos resultados indican que C. kraussii actúa como hospedador definitivo de O. andinus. y Neoechinorhynchus sp., y como hospedador intermediario de Clinostomum sp., Posthodiplostomum spp. y Austrodiplostomum sp. Se reporta por segunda vez una población de O. andinus en Colombia y la ocurrencia de una morfoespecie del género Neoechinorhynchus que podría ser un reporte nuevo para Colombia. Además del aporte al conocimiento de la diversidad de helmintos asociados a peces, los resultados de esta investigación podrían ser aprovechados para generar recomendaciones para el manejo y control de helmintiasis en sistemas piscícolas artificiales que se surten de afluentes naturales y favorecen el establecimiento de hospederos y parásitos.

Reduced genetic diversity and the success of the invasive peacock bass (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) / Diversidade genética reduzida e o sucesso da espécie invasora tucunaré (Cichliformes: Cichlidae)

Abstract Several species of Cichla successfully colonized lakes and reservoirs of Brazil, since the 1960's, causing serious damage to local wildlife. In this study, 135 peacock bass were collected in a reservoir complex in order to identify if they represented a single dominant species or multiple ones, as several Cichla species have been reported in the basin. Specimens were identified by color pattern, morphometric and meristic data, and using mitochondrial markers COI, 16S rDNA and Control Region (CR). Overlapping morphological data and similar coloration patterns prevented their identification using the taxonomic keys to species identification available in the literature. However, Bayesian and maximum likelihood from sequencing data demonstrated the occurrence of a single species, Cichla kelberi. A single haplotype was observed for the 16S and CR, while three were detected for COI, with a dominant haplotype present in 98.5% of the samples. The extreme low diversity of the transplanted C. kelberi evidenced a limited number of founding maternal lineages. The success of this colonization seems to rely mainly on abiotic factors, such as increased water transparency of lentic environments that favor visual predators that along with the absence of predators, have made C. kelberi a successful invader of these reservoirs.

Resumo Muitas espécies de Cichla colonizaram com sucesso lagos e reservatórios do Brasil desde os anos 1960, causando graves prejuízos à vida selvagem nesses locais. Neste estudo, 135 tucunarés foram coletados em um complexo de reservatórios a fim de identificar se representavam uma espécie dominante ou múltiplas espécies, uma vez que diversas espécies de Cichla foram registradas na bacia. Os espécimes foram identificados com base na coloração, dados morfométricos e merísticos, e por marcadores mitocondriais COI, 16S rDNA e Região Controle (RC). A sobreposição dos dados morfométricos e o padrão similar de coloração impediram a identificação utilizando as chaves de identificação disponíveis na literatura. Entretanto, as análises bayesiana e de máxima verossimilhança de dados moleculares demonstraram a ocorrência de uma única espécie, Cichla kelberi. Um único haplótipo foi observado para o 16S e RC, enquanto três foram detectados para o COI, com um haplótipo dominante presente em 98,5% das amostras. A baixa diversidade nos exemplares introduzidos de C. kelberi evidenciou um número limitado de linhagens maternas fundadoras. O sucesso da invasão parece depender de fatores abióticos, como a maior transparência da água de ambientes lênticos que favorece predadores visuais que, atrelado à ausência de predadores, fez do C. kelberi um invasor bem-sucedido nesses reservatórios.

Reduced genetic diversity and the success of the invasive peacock bass (Cichliformes: Cichlidae)

Abstract Several species of Cichla successfully colonized lakes and reservoirs of Brazil, since the 1960s, causing serious damage to local wildlife. In this study, 135 peacock bass were collected in a reservoir complex in order to identify if they represented a single dominant species or multiple ones, as several Cichla species have been reported in the basin. Specimens were identified by color pattern, morphometric and meristic data, and using mitochondrial markers COI, 16S rDNA and Control Region (CR). Overlapping morphological data and similar coloration patterns prevented their identification using the taxonomic keys to species identification available in the literature. However, Bayesian and maximum likelihood from sequencing data demonstrated the occurrence of a single species, Cichla kelberi. A single haplotype was observed for the 16S and CR, while three were detected for COI, with a dominant haplotype present in 98.5% of the samples. The extreme low diversity of the transplanted C. kelberi evidenced a limited number of founding maternal lineages. The success of this colonization seems to rely mainly on abiotic factors, such as increased water transparency of lentic environments that favor visual predators that along with the absence of predators, have made C. kelberi a successful invader of these reservoirs.

Resumo Muitas espécies de Cichla colonizaram com sucesso lagos e reservatórios do Brasil desde os anos 1960, causando graves prejuízos à vida selvagem nesses locais. Neste estudo, 135 tucunarés foram coletados em um complexo de reservatórios a fim de identificar se representavam uma espécie dominante ou múltiplas espécies, uma vez que diversas espécies de Cichla foram registradas na bacia. Os espécimes foram identificados com base na coloração, dados morfométricos e merísticos, e por marcadores mitocondriais COI, 16S rDNA e Região Controle (RC). A sobreposição dos dados morfométricos e o padrão similar de coloração impediram a identificação utilizando as chaves de identificação disponíveis na literatura. Entretanto, as análises bayesiana e de máxima verossimilhança de dados moleculares demonstraram a ocorrência de uma única espécie, Cichla kelberi. Um único haplótipo foi observado para o 16S e RC, enquanto três foram detectados para o COI, com um haplótipo dominante presente em 98,5% das amostras. A baixa diversidade nos exemplares introduzidos de C. kelberi evidenciou um número limitado de linhagens maternas fundadoras. O sucesso da invasão parece depender de fatores abióticos, como a maior transparência da água de ambientes lênticos que favorece predadores visuais que, atrelado à ausência de predadores, fez do C. kelberi um invasor bem-sucedido nesses reservatórios.

Social behaviors as welfare indicators in teleost fish.

Animal welfare is a key issue not only for aquaculture industry and food production, but also for daily husbandry practices in research topics related to physiology in wild and farmed animals. In this context, teleost fish constitute interesting models to assess alternative welfare indicators because of their wide diversity in reproductive and social structures. Any framework for assessing teleost fish welfare needs to account for the physiological mechanisms involved in each species as a first step. A comprehensive approach should also take into account how these physiological and behavioral parameters can be altered by environmental enrichment considering the specific requirements in each case and identifying intrinsic biological characteristics of individual species. This review will show how cortisol and sex steroids regulate social behavior in teleost fish, and how different aspects of social behavior can be employed as welfare indicators according to specific characteristics in each case. This article will consider evidence in teleost fish, including cichlids, characids and cyprinids with different reproductive strategies and social structures (e.g., territorial social hierarchies or shoaling behavior). Neotropical species will be particularly emphasized. The main laboratory-based animal welfare indicators are cortisol, a classical stress hormone, together with sex steroids. Considering that the endocrine landscape is intrinsically related to social behavior, reproductive and agonistic behavioral traits such as aggression, anxiety and courtship are key elements to assess welfare under housing and culture conditions. This review highlights the importance of assessing physiological mechanisms and identifying behavioral characteristics in teleost fish, especially in Neotropical species, as a baseline to understand which environmental enrichment can improve animal welfare in each individual species.

Feeding and locomotor rhythm of the ornamental cichlid fish Amatitlania sp. in different social groups.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feeding activity and the rhythm of daily locomotor activity of the convict cichlid (Amatitlania sp.) kept in different social groups under a self-feeding system. A total of 120 animals was distributed among six repetitions of four social groups, as follows: group 1 with one male and one female per tank; group 2 with three males and three females per tank; group 3 with six males per tank; and group 4 with six females per tank. Feeding activity (FA) and locomotor activity (LA) were evaluated using photoelectric presence-sensors connected to automatic feeders. The fish were fed a commercial extruded diet (46% crude protein and 3600 kcal kg-1 of digestible energy). Animal growth was evaluated for all groups. After 30 days of experimentation, the fish stabilized their demands by adjusting their consumption. Amatitlania sp. showed predominantly diurnal FA and LA. All groups showed a peak of activity when the light was turned on and when it was turned off. In summary, FA and LA of Amatitlania sp. are predominantly diurnal and independent of social group. Pairs and groups of males and females together consume less food in relation to groups of one sex or the other due to reproductive behaviour. On the other hand, groups of only males or females consume more food because they lack reproductive stimuli and thus prioritize growth. These results may support good feeding management practices for this ornamental cichlid. Studies relating feeding behaviour with different social groups are of great importance for determining effective feeding strategies for this species in captivity. Thus, such a study assists in a more efficient production of Amatitlania sp.

First characterization of PIWI-interacting RNA clusters in a cichlid fish with a B chromosome.

BACKGROUND: B chromosomes are extra elements found in several eukaryote species. Usually, they do not express a phenotype in the host. However, advances in bioinformatics over the last decades have allowed us to describe several genes and molecular functions related to B chromosomes. These advances enable investigations of the relationship between the B chromosome and the host to understand how this element has been preserved in genomes. However, considering that transposable elements (TEs) are highly abundant in this supernumerary chromosome, there is a lack of knowledge concerning the dynamics of TE control in B-carrying cells. Thus, the present study characterized PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) clusters and pathways responsible for silencing the mobilization of TEs in gonads of the cichlid fish Astatotilapia latifasciata carrying the B chromosome. RESULTS: Through small RNA-seq and genome assembly, we predicted and annotated piRNA clusters in the A. latifasciata genome for the first time. We observed that these clusters had biased expression related to sex and the presence of the B chromosome. Furthermore, three piRNA clusters, named curupira, were identified in the B chromosome. Two of them were expressed exclusively in gonads of samples with the B chromosome. The composition of these curupira sequences was derived from LTR, LINE, and DNA elements, representing old and recent transposition events in the A. latifasciata genome and the B chromosome. The presence of the B chromosome also affected the expression of piRNA pathway genes. The mitochondrial cardiolipin hydrolase-like (pld6) gene is present in the B chromosome, as previously reported, and an increase in its expression was detected in gonads with the B chromosome. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the high abundance of TEs in the B chromosome, it was possible to investigate the origin of piRNA from these jumping genes. We hypothesize that the B chromosome has evolved its own genomic guardians to prevent uncontrolled TE mobilization. Furthermore, we also detected an expression bias in the presence of the B chromosome over A. latifasciata piRNA clusters and pathway genes.

Aggressive interactions and consistency of dominance hierarchies of the native and nonnative cichlid fishes of the Balsas basin.

Dominance hierarchies are generally established based on the levels of aggressiveness that animals present. Frequently, animals fight to establish a dominance hierarchy and obtain a disputed resource. The Mexican mojarra Cichlasoma istlanum is a native species of the Balsas river basin and coexists there with four nonnative cichlids: tilapia Oreochromis sp., convict cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata, spotcheek cichlid Thorichthys maculipinnis, and green terror Andinoacara rivulatus. These five cichlid species compete for spaces for reproduction, feeding, and shelter and frequently engage in aggressive interactions to obtain these resources. We quantified dominance indices to evaluate the hierarchical structure of dominance among these five cichlids and the duration of aggressive behaviors of the Mexican mojarra during experimental contests between the native species and each of the four nonnative species. The Mexican mojarra was consistently dominant over the other four cichlid species, performing a larger number of aggressive behaviors and investing more time in attacking than the nonnative cichlids, which resulted in a higher hierarchical position. Our results show that the native fish, Mexican mojarra, established dominance over all four nonnative cichlid fish of the Balsas basin. Thus, the establishment of nonnative cichlid species in the Balsas basin is likely associated with factors other than behavioral dominance.

Salinized water as a strategy for increase stocking density in Heros severus larviculture, an Amazonian ornamental fish / Água salinizada como estratégia para aumentar a densidade de estocagem na larvicultura de Heros severus, um peixe ornamental da Amazônia

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different salinized water (0, 3 and 6 g L-1) and sto-cking densities (10, 15 and 20 larvae L-1) in Heros severus larviculture. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 3x3 factorial design, with three replicates. For this, a total of 405 larvae of H. severus were randomly distributed in 27 aquariums (1L) according to the treatments and after 15 days all the larvae were measured, weighed and counted. Higher values for final length, length gain and specific growth rate were observed in H. severus larvae raised at any stocking density tested at 3 g L-1 of salinized water (p < 0.05). The final weight and weight gain followed the same trend of the length, being higher in fish submitted to 3 g L-1 of salinized water (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the salinized water of 6 g L-1 was detrimental to larvae weight uniformity and survival rate (p < 0.05). The fish stocked at densities of 15 or 20 larvae L-1 presented the best results of final weight and weight gain (p < 0.05). The stocking density of 20 larvae L-1 in salinized water at 3 g L-1 is recommended for H. severus larviculture.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes águas salinizadas (0, 3 e 6 g L-1) e densidades de estocagem (10, 15 e 20 larvas L-1) na larvicultura de Heros severus. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3x3, com três repetições. Para isso, 405 larvas de H. severus foram distribuídas aleatoriamente em 27 aquários (1 L), de acordo com os tratamentos e, 15 dias depois, todas foram medidas, pesadas e contadas. Maiores valores de comprimento final, ganho de comprimento e taxa de crescimento específico foram observados em larvas criadas em qualquer densidade testada a 3 g L-1 de água salinizada (p < 0,05). O peso final e o ganho de peso seguiram a ten-dência do comprimento, sendo maiores nos peixes submetidos a 3 g L-1 de água salinizada (p < 0,05). Por outro lado, a água salinizada a 6 g L-1 prejudicou a uniformidade do peso e a taxa de sobrevivência das larvas (p < 0,05). Os peixes estocados nas densidades de 15 ou 20 larvas L-1 apresentaram os me-lhores resultados de peso final e ganho de peso (p < 0,05). A densidade de estocagem de 20 larvas L-1 em água salinizada a 3 g L-1 é recomendada para a larvicultura de H. severus.(AU)

Pervasive admixture and the spread of a large-lipped form in a cichlid fish radiation.

Adaptive radiations have proven important for understanding the mechanisms and processes underlying biological diversity. The convergence of form and function, as well as admixture and adaptive introgression, are common in adaptive radiations. However, distinguishing between these two scenarios remains a challenge for evolutionary research. The Midas cichlid species complex (Amphilophus spp.) is a prime example of adaptive radiation, with phenotypic diversification occurring at various stages of genetic differentiation. One species, A. labiatus, has large fleshy lips, is associated with rocky lake substrates, and occurs patchily within Lakes Nicaragua and Managua. By contrast, the similar, but thin-lipped, congener, A. citrinellus, is more common and widespread. We investigated the evolutionary history of the large-lipped form, specifically regarding whether the trait has evolved independently in both lakes from ancestral thin-lipped populations, or via dispersal and/or admixture events. We collected samples from distinct locations in both lakes, and assessed differences in morphology and ecology. Using RAD-seq, we genotyped thousands of SNPs to measure population structure and divergence, demographic history, and admixture. We found significant between-species differences in ecology and morphology, local intraspecific differences in body shape and trophic traits, but only limited intraspecific variation in lip shape. Despite clear ecological differences, our genomic approach uncovered pervasive admixture between the species and low genomic differentiation, with species within lakes being genetically more similar than species between lakes. Taken together, our results suggest a single origin of large-lips, followed by pervasive admixture and adaptive introgression, with morphology being driven by local ecological opportunities, despite ongoing gene-flow.

Las radiaciones adaptativas han demostrado ser clave para entender los mecanismos y procesos responsables de la diversidad biológica. La convergencia en forma y función, así como la mezcla genética y la introgresión adaptativa, son algo común en las radiaciones adaptativas. Sin embargo, distinguir entre estos dos escenarios sigue siendo un desafío para la biología evolutiva. El complejo de especies del cíclido de Midas (Amphilophus spp.) es un ejemplo paradigmático de radiación adaptativa, con diversidad fenotípica en varias etapas de diferenciación genética. Una de las especies, A. labiatus, que tiene labios grandes y carnosos, se asocia a zonas rocosas de los lagos, y tiene una distribución irregular en los lagos Nicaragua y Managua. En cambio, A. citrinellus, es una especie similar pero con labios finos, más común y con una distribución más amplia. Investigamos la historia evolutiva de la especie de labios grandes y, en concreto, si este rasgo ha evolucionado de forma independiente en los dos grandes lagos nicaragüenses a partir de poblaciones ancestrales de labios finos, o si por el contrario se ha dispersado mediante migración y/o mezcla genética. Colectamos muestras de distintas localidades en ambos lagos y evaluamos las diferencias en morfología y ecología. Genotipamos miles de SNPs utilizando RAD-seq para medir la estructura genética, la divergencia, la historia demográfica y la mezcla genética de las poblaciones. Encontramos diferencias significativas entre especies en ecología y morfología, diferencias intraespecíficas locales en la forma del cuerpo y rasgos tróficos, pero sólo una limitada variación intraespecífica en la forma de los labios. A pesar de las claras diferencias ecológicas, el análisis genómico desveló una intensa mezcla genética entre especies, y una limitada diferenciación genómica, encontrando mayor semejanza genética entre especies dentro de un mismo lago, que entre especies de distintos lagos. Nuestros resultados sugieren un origen único de la especie de labios gruesos seguido de mezcla genética e introgresión adaptativa, e indican que la morfología habría sido modelada por las oportunidades ecológicas locales, a pesar del flujo génico.

Liver biomarkers response of the neotropical fish Aequidens metae to environmental stressors associated with the oil industry.

The Acacias River in Colombia receives large volumes of industrial effluents mostly derived from the oil industry. To contribute to the study of the possible effects of industrial wastewaters on the aquatic environment and particularly on fish populations, a native neotropical fish, Aequidens metae was used as a sentinel species. Wild specimens of A. metae were caught at three different places of the Acacias River taking as reference the point of discharge of an oil industry effluent; upstream, downstream, and at the vicinity of the discharge pipe. A fourth sampling site was chosen as a reference site away from urban settlements. Samplings were performed twice, during the rainy and dry seasons. After anesthesia animals were weighted and measured, and humanely sacrificed. Livers were extracted, frozen on site and transported to the laboratory. Condition indices were calculated. Total protein content and the detoxification 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) enzyme activity were estimated. Histopathological alterations were also evaluated. Water quality was estimated through the measurement of several variables. Results obtained evidenced that the highest induction in EROD activity and the strongest histological alterations in liver of the monitored fish appeared during the dry seasons at the discharge site and downstream to this point.

Differential expression of miRNAs in the presence of B chromosome in the cichlid fish Astatotilapia latifasciata.

BACKGROUND: B chromosomes (Bs) are extra elements observed in diverse eukaryotes, including animals, plants and fungi. Although Bs were first identified a century ago and have been studied in hundreds of species, their biology is still enigmatic. Recent advances in omics and big data technologies are revolutionizing the B biology field. These advances allow analyses of DNA, RNA, proteins and the construction of interactive networks for understanding the B composition and behavior in the cell. Several genes have been detected on the B chromosomes, although the interaction of B sequences and the normal genome remains poorly understood. RESULTS: We identified 727 miRNA precursors in the A. latifasciata genome, 66% which were novel predicted sequences that had not been identified before. We were able to report the A. latifasciata-specific miRNAs and common miRNAs identified in other fish species. For the samples carrying the B chromosome (B+), we identified 104 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs that are down or upregulated compared to samples without B chromosome (B-) (p < 0.05). These miRNAs share common targets in the brain, muscle and gonads. These targets were used to construct a protein-protein-miRNA network showing the high interaction between the targets of differentially expressed miRNAs in the B+ chromosome samples. Among the DE-miRNA targets there are protein-coding genes reported for the B chromosome that are present in the protein-protein-miRNA network. Additionally, Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to nuclear matrix organization and response to stimulus are exclusive to DE miRNA targets of B+ samples. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to report the connection of B chromosomes and miRNAs in a vertebrate species. We observed that the B chromosome impacts the miRNAs expression in several tissues and these miRNAs target several mRNAs involved with important biological processes.

Hematological parameters of three species of the peacock bass (Cichla spp. ) from Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil / Parâmetros hematológicos de três espécies de tucunarés (Cichla spp. ) do lago de Balbina, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brasil

The objective of this study was to characterize and compare the hematological variables (erythrogram, thrombogram, leukogram and plasma metabolites) of three cichlid species: Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis and Cichla vazzoleri. A total of 45 specimens were captured in Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil, with the aid of a rod and reel or hand line, with natural or artificial bait: 15 C. monoculus, 15 C. temensis and 15 C. vazzoleri. Their blood was removed by means of caudal puncture of the dorsal aorta, and hematological data were determined in accordance with methodology previously described in the literature. The erythrogram showed similarities between the species, while the thrombogram showed differences between C. vazzoleri and the other species studied (C. monoculus and C. temensis). The total leukocyte counts for C. temensis and C. vazzoleri were higher than those of C. monoculus. The predominant leukocyte in C. temensis and C. vazzoleri was lymphocytes, whereas it was monocytes in C. monoculus. The plasma metabolites showed differences between the three cichlid species, regarding their glucose, cholesterol, urea and potassium levels. It is concluded that these three species present hematological differentiation, thus indicating that they have differentiated blood-cell immune responses and plasma metabolite physiology.(AU)

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar e comparar as variáveis hematológicas (eritrograma, trombograma, leucograma e metabólitos plasmáticos) de três espécies de tucunarés Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis e Cichla vazzoleri. Um total de 45 animais foi capturado no lago de Balbina, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, com auxílio de vara e carretilha, linha de mão com isca natural e artificial, sendo 15 C. monoculos, 15 C. temensis e 15 C. vazzoleri. O sangue foi retirado por punção caudal da aorta dorsal e os dados hematológicos foram determinados de acordo com metodologia previamente descrita na literatura. No eritrograma foram observadas similaridades entre as espécies, o trombograma demonstrou diferenças entre o C. vazzoleri e as demais espécies estudadas (C. monoculus e C. temensis), a contagem total de leucócitos demonstrou que em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri os valores são superiores ao C. monoculus. Foi demonstrado que os linfócitos foram às células predominantes em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri, diferentemente do C. monoculos que apresentou como leucócito predominante os monócitos. Nos metabólitos plasmáticos, foi possível observar diferenças entre as três espécies de tucunarés nos níveis de glicose, colesterol, uréia e potássio. Conclui-se que as três espécies de tucunarés apresentam diferenciação hematológica, indicando que as mesmas possuem respostas diferenciadas, na resposta imunológica de suas células do sangue e na fisiologia dos metabólitos plasmáticos.(AU)

Hematological parameters of three species of the peacock bass (Cichla spp. ) from Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil / Parâmetros hematológicos de três espécies de tucunarés (Cichla spp. ) do lago de Balbina, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brasil

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize and compare the hematological variables (erythrogram, thrombogram, leukogram and plasma metabolites) of three cichlid species: Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis and Cichla vazzoleri. A total of 45 specimens were captured in Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil, with the aid of a rod and reel or hand line, with natural or artificial bait: 15 C. monoculus, 15 C. temensis and 15 C. vazzoleri. Their blood was removed by means of caudal puncture of the dorsal aorta, and hematological data were determined in accordance with methodology previously described in the literature. The erythrogram showed similarities between the species, while the thrombogram showed differences between C. vazzoleri and the other species studied (C. monoculus and C. temensis). The total leukocyte counts for C. temensis and C. vazzoleri were higher than those of C. monoculus. The predominant leukocyte in C. temensis and C. vazzoleri was lymphocytes, whereas it was monocytes in C. monoculus. The plasma metabolites showed differences between the three cichlid species, regarding their glucose, cholesterol, urea and potassium levels. It is concluded that these three species present hematological differentiation, thus indicating that they have differentiated blood-cell immune responses and plasma metabolite physiology.

Resumo O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar e comparar as variáveis hematológicas (eritrograma, trombograma, leucograma e metabólitos plasmáticos) de três espécies de tucunarés Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis e Cichla vazzoleri. Um total de 45 animais foi capturado no lago de Balbina, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, com auxílio de vara e carretilha, linha de mão com isca natural e artificial, sendo 15 C. monoculos, 15 C. temensis e 15 C. vazzoleri. O sangue foi retirado por punção caudal da aorta dorsal e os dados hematológicos foram determinados de acordo com metodologia previamente descrita na literatura. No eritrograma foram observadas similaridades entre as espécies, o trombograma demonstrou diferenças entre o C. vazzoleri e as demais espécies estudadas (C. monoculus e C. temensis), a contagem total de leucócitos demonstrou que em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri os valores são superiores ao C. monoculus. Foi demonstrado que os linfócitos foram às células predominantes em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri, diferentemente do C. monoculos que apresentou como leucócito predominante os monócitos. Nos metabólitos plasmáticos, foi possível observar diferenças entre as três espécies de tucunarés nos níveis de glicose, colesterol, uréia e potássio. Conclui-se que as três espécies de tucunarés apresentam diferenciação hematológica, indicando que as mesmas possuem respostas diferenciadas, na resposta imunológica de suas células do sangue e na fisiologia dos metabólitos plasmáticos.

Growth of Geophagus brasiliensis reared at different temperatures and feeding regimes / Crescimento de Geophagus brasiliensis cultivado em diferentes temperaturas e regimes de alimentação

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance of Geophagus brasiliensis reared under distinct temperatures (24.3 ± 0.9, 28.1 ± 1.0, and 31.7 ± 0.8°C) and feeding regimes (apparent satiety and a supply of 4% of the total biomass). About 500 wild-caught individuals were sorted and identified, to screen 180 fish to be used in the experiment (6.81 ± 1.15 g and 7.51 ± 0.47 cm). After a 55-day acclimatization period, the fish were distributed in experimental tanks, considering a double factorial randomized blocks scheme, composed of six treatments and three replicates. Growth performance parameters, somatic indexes and carcass yield were evaluated at the end of the experimental period (72 days). Fish fed to the point of apparent satiety presented higher (p <0.05) final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate and hepatosomatic index. The animals reared at a temperature of 24.3°C displayed higher (p <0.05) final weight, weight gain, specific growth, hepatosomatic index, lower visceral fat, and feed conversion index. It was concluded that G. brasiliensis presents higher productive indexes when fed until apparent satiety and reared in temperatures close to 24.3°C.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho zootécnico de Geophagus brasiliensis criado sob diferentes temperaturas (24,3 ± 0,9, 28,1 ± 1,0 e 31,7 ± 0,8°C) e regimes alimentares (saciedade aparente e taxa de arraçoamento de 4% da biomassa total). Foram selecionados e identificados cerca de 500 indivíduos capturados na natureza, para a triagem de 180 peixes a serem utilizados no experimento (6,81 ± 1,15 g e 7,51 ± 0,47 cm). Após um período de aclimatação de 55 dias, os peixes foram distribuídos em tanques experimentais, considerando um esquema de blocos ao acaso em fatorial duplo, composto por seis tratamentos e três repetições. O desempenho zootécnico, os índices somáticos e o rendimento de carcaça foram avaliados ao final do período experimental (72 dias). Os peixes alimentados até a saciedade aparente apresentaram maiores (p <0,05) peso final, ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento específico e índice hepatossomático. Os animais criados em temperatura de 24,3°C apresentaram maior (p <0,05) peso final, ganho de peso, crescimento específico, índice hepatossomático, menor índice de gordura visceral e de conversão alimentar. Concluiu-se que G. brasiliensis apresenta maiores índices produtivos quando alimentado até a saciedade aparente e criado em temperaturas próximas a 24,3°C.

Growth of Geophagus brasiliensis reared at different temperatures and feeding regimes / Crescimento de Geophagus brasiliensis cultivado em diferentes temperaturas e regimes de alimentação

The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance of Geophagus brasiliensis reared under distinct temperatures (24.3 ± 0.9, 28.1 ± 1.0, and 31.7 ± 0.8°C) and feeding regimes (apparent satiety and a supply of 4% of the total biomass). About 500 wild-caught individuals were sorted and identified, to screen 180 fish to be used in the experiment (6.81 ± 1.15 g and 7.51 ± 0.47 cm). After a 55-day acclimatization period, the fish were distributed in experimental tanks, considering a double factorial randomized blocks scheme, composed of six treatments and three replicates. Growth performance parameters, somatic indexes and carcass yield were evaluated at the end of the experimental period (72 days). Fish fed to the point of apparent satiety presented higher (p <0.05) final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate and hepatosomatic index. The animals reared at a temperature of 24.3°C displayed higher (p <0.05) final weight, weight gain, specific growth, hepatosomatic index, lower visceral fat, and feed conversion index. It was concluded that G. brasiliensis presents higher productive indexes when fed until apparent satiety and reared in temperatures close to 24.3°C.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho zootécnico de Geophagus brasiliensis criado sob diferentes temperaturas (24,3 ± 0,9, 28,1 ± 1,0 e 31,7 ± 0,8°C) e regimes alimentares (saciedade aparente e taxa de arraçoamento de 4% da biomassa total). Foram selecionados e identificados cerca de 500 indivíduos capturados na natureza, para a triagem de 180 peixes a serem utilizados no experimento (6,81 ± 1,15 g e 7,51 ± 0,47 cm). Após um período de aclimatação de 55 dias, os peixes foram distribuídos em tanques experimentais, considerando um esquema de blocos ao acaso em fatorial duplo, composto por seis tratamentos e três repetições. O desempenho zootécnico, os índices somáticos e o rendimento de carcaça foram avaliados ao final do período experimental (72 dias). Os peixes alimentados até a saciedade aparente apresentaram maiores (p <0,05) peso final, ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento específico e índice hepatossomático. Os animais criados em temperatura de 24,3°C apresentaram maior (p <0,05) peso final, ganho de peso, crescimento específico, índice hepatossomático, menor índice de gordura visceral e de conversão alimentar. Concluiu-se que G. brasiliensis apresenta maiores índices produtivos quando alimentado até a saciedade aparente e criado em temperaturas próximas a 24,3°C.(AU)

An insular record of the Mayan cichlid Mayaheros urophthalmus (Günther, 1862) (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) on an island 70 km offshore in the Honduran Caribbean.

Here we report the first record of the Mayan cichlid, Mayaheros urophthalmus, occurring on an offshore island 70 km from the mainland, the most distant record from the mainland to date. Specimens were collected during several ichthyological surveys on the island of Guanaja, Honduras in November 2019. Mayan cichlids are euryhaline fishes that perform very well in fresh, brackish and marine waters. It has been hypothesized that their high tolerance to salinity and potential of using costal waterways has facilitated the colonization and expansion of M. urophthalmus.

Diving into divergence: Differentiation in swimming performances, physiology and gene expression between locally-adapted sympatric cichlid fishes.

Sympatric speciation occurs without geographical barriers and is thought to often be driven by ecological specialization of individuals that eventually diverge genetically and phenotypically. Distinct morphologies between sympatric populations occupying different niches have been interpreted as such differentiating adaptive phenotypes, yet differences in performance and thus likely adaptiveness between them were rarely tested. Here, we investigated if divergent body shapes of two sympatric crater lake cichlid species from Nicaragua, one being a shore-associated (benthic) species while the other prefers the open water zones (limnetic), affect cruising (Ucrit ) and sprinting (Usprint ) swimming abilities - performances particularly relevant to their respective lifestyles. Furthermore, we investigated species differences in oxygen consumption (MO2 ) across different swimming speeds and compare gene expression in gills and white muscle at rest and during exercise. We found a superior cruising ability in the limnetic Amphilophus zaliosus compared to the benthic Amphilophus astorquii, while sprinting was not different, suggesting that their distinct morphologies affect swimming performance. Increased cruising swimming ability in A. zaliosus was linked to a higher oxygen demand during activity (but not rest), indicating different metabolic rates during exercise - a hypothesis supported by coinciding gene expression patterns of gill transcriptomes. We identified differentially expressed genes linked to swimming physiology, regulation of swimming behaviour and oxygen intake. A combination of physiological and morphological differences may thus underlie adaptations to these species' distinct niches. This complex ecological specialization probably resulted in morphological and physiological trade-offs that contributed to the rapid establishment and maintenance of divergence with gene flow.

Hematological parameters of three species of the peacock bass (Cichla spp.) from Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil

Abstract The objective of this study was to characterize and compare the hematological variables (erythrogram, thrombogram, leukogram and plasma metabolites) of three cichlid species: Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis and Cichla vazzoleri. A total of 45 specimens were captured in Balbina lake, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, Brazil, with the aid of a rod and reel or hand line, with natural or artificial bait: 15 C. monoculus, 15 C. temensis and 15 C. vazzoleri. Their blood was removed by means of caudal puncture of the dorsal aorta, and hematological data were determined in accordance with methodology previously described in the literature. The erythrogram showed similarities between the species, while the thrombogram showed differences between C. vazzoleri and the other species studied (C. monoculus and C. temensis). The total leukocyte counts for C. temensis and C. vazzoleri were higher than those of C. monoculus. The predominant leukocyte in C. temensis and C. vazzoleri was lymphocytes, whereas it was monocytes in C. monoculus. The plasma metabolites showed differences between the three cichlid species, regarding their glucose, cholesterol, urea and potassium levels. It is concluded that these three species present hematological differentiation, thus indicating that they have differentiated blood-cell immune responses and plasma metabolite physiology.

Resumo O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar e comparar as variáveis hematológicas (eritrograma, trombograma, leucograma e metabólitos plasmáticos) de três espécies de tucunarés Cichla monoculus, Cichla temensis e Cichla vazzoleri. Um total de 45 animais foi capturado no lago de Balbina, Presidente Figueiredo, Amazonas, com auxílio de vara e carretilha, linha de mão com isca natural e artificial, sendo 15 C. monoculos, 15 C. temensis e 15 C. vazzoleri. O sangue foi retirado por punção caudal da aorta dorsal e os dados hematológicos foram determinados de acordo com metodologia previamente descrita na literatura. No eritrograma foram observadas similaridades entre as espécies, o trombograma demonstrou diferenças entre o C. vazzoleri e as demais espécies estudadas (C. monoculus e C. temensis), a contagem total de leucócitos demonstrou que em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri os valores são superiores ao C. monoculus. Foi demonstrado que os linfócitos foram às células predominantes em C. temensis e C. vazzoleri, diferentemente do C. monoculos que apresentou como leucócito predominante os monócitos. Nos metabólitos plasmáticos, foi possível observar diferenças entre as três espécies de tucunarés nos níveis de glicose, colesterol, uréia e potássio. Conclui-se que as três espécies de tucunarés apresentam diferenciação hematológica, indicando que as mesmas possuem respostas diferenciadas, na resposta imunológica de suas células do sangue e na fisiologia dos metabólitos plasmáticos.