Presentation Details
Sex-specific tuning and plasticity of sensory systems

Piyumika Suriyampola, Jasmine Norris, Sean Snyder, Ryker Preston, Emilia Martins.

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA

Abstract


Reproductive state induces physiological changes that alter behavior, including shifts in sensory behavior. Some sensory modalities sharpen during breeding, potentially aiding interactions with mates, yet these changes may differ between sexes and may not enhance all senses equally. Little is known about how reproductive state influences multiple sensory systems simultaneously, or whether males and females show distinct trade‑offs. We tested whether simulated breeding conditions are linked to sensory responsiveness in male and female zebrafish (Danio rerio). Using environmental cues typical of the breeding season, we induced reproductive state and measured visual and chemical sensitivity with optomotor and chemomotor assays. Females showed consistently higher visual sensitivity than males, regardless of reproductive condition. In contrast, males exhibited enhanced chemical sensitivity when reproductively primed, while females showed no such shift. These findings suggest that reproductive state selectively alters sensory modalities in a sex‑specific manner rather than uniformly enhancing sensory performance, reflecting differing ecological and social pressures on males and females.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
Content Locked. Log into a registered attendee account to access this presentation.