College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

Spring 6-13-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biological Science

First Advisor

Windsor Aguirre, PhD

Abstract

This study investigates the impact that temperature-induced vertebral anomalies have on the C-start escape response of Astyanax mexicanus, a model species in evolutionary developmental biology. Employing three temperature treatments to induce varying degrees of skeletal anomalies, we assessed their effects on key swimming performance metrics including, C-start time, the curvature coefficient, head displacement distance, and displacement velocity. Through the use of linear mixed models (LMMs) and generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs), our results reveal that specific anomalies such as vertebral fusions and anomalous haemal and neural spines affected the curving ability of c-start escape responses, however, these did not negatively impact other performance parameters, with velocity, distance, and response time showing no significant impacts from any anomaly types, when assessed individually. This suggests a complex interplay between structural deformities and compensatory physiological mechanisms that maintain functional performance. Other variables measured had a stronger and significant impact on swimming performance, including standard length (SL), vertebral number, and temperature treatment, which influenced escape speed, curving ability, and overall locomotor performance. Our findings challenge conventional perceptions about the debilitating impact of vertebral anomalies, indicating that many affected fish can still effectively perform escape maneuvers, which is critical for survival. This study underscores the importance of considering morphological resilience in conservation strategies for Neotropical freshwater ecosystems facing environmental and anthropogenic pressures.

SLP Collection

no

Download

Included in

Biology Commons

Share

COinS