Maggie Lin
Research Mentor(s): Patricia Torres Pineda
Mentor Department: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Authors:
Session: Session 1 (9:00am – 9:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 107
Abstract
We studied the patterns of functional morphology linked to swimming performance in fishes of the family Poeciliidae and draw inferences on how it impacts the relationship between species morphology and performance in their environment. Morphological variability linked to swimming performance in fishes, such as body and fin size and shape has been linked to habitat use as well as access to food and mates. The family Poeciliidae, is a group of around 220 species of fish occurring in southern North America, South and Central America, including the Caribbean. The family Poeciliidae (Livebearers) is extremely diverse in species richness and habitat occupancy, which makes them suitable for the study of patterns of selective evolution. Most species in this family are ovoviviparous, meaning that instead of laying eggs externally, the female keeps fertilized eggs inside its body until they hatch, leading to a live birth. Also, poeciliid fishes exhibit sexual dimorphism which could also influence performance. We measured 16 functional morphological traits using specimens from the collection of fishes of the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology (UMMZ). We photographed and took both linear measurements and landmark measurements using photographs of adult specimens of 26 species of fishes in the family Poeciliidae. This dataset can then be used to understand functional morphological differences between species and how they influence species’ performance in their environment. Preliminary results and analysis of species similar to the current subject base, indicate that features related to swimming morphology are of significant importance in the diversification of live-bearing fish. The variability of these differences demonstrates the prioritization of rapid swimming versus slower, accurate movement for each species. Additionally, the sexual dimorphism present in many species suggests variability in swimming performance based on sex. Further research on the family Poeciliidae’s morphological differences throughout the Neotropics will help guide further understanding of the relationship between morphology, performance, and evolution.
