Presentation Details
| Visual and mechanosensory cues drive social interaction in fathead minnow embryos Jewel Johnson, Jessica Ward. Department of Biology, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, USA |
Abstract
Most animals are oviparous, starting life as immobile embryos. While this stage is vulnerable to predators and environmental hazards, evidence suggests embryos can sense threats and modulate their behavior. Most research focuses on embryos sampling their direct environment, yet many species lay eggs in clutches, allowing for potential social cue sampling between nestmates to detect danger. We investigated these sensory mechanisms in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). These fish produce transparent embryos that, by four days post-fertilization, can perceive both light and mechanosensory cues. We conducted a factorial experiment comparing embryonic activity when exposed to visual only, mechanosensory only, both, or no social cues, before and after a simulated predator attack. Our results indicate that embryos perceive both types of cues from nestmates regardless of threat levels. Preliminary data also show higher synchrony within clutches compared to isolated embryos. Ultimately, this study confirms that embryos are active organisms capable of processing complex social information, adding to our understanding of how early-life interactions facilitate survival.
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.
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.