Towards an explanation of the developmental strategy in leptocephalous larvae of marine teleost fishes |
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Authors: | Edward Pfeiler |
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Institution: | (1) Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Escuela de Ciencias Marítimas y Alimentarias, Apartado Postal 484, Guaymas, Sonora, 85400, México |
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Abstract: | Synopsis Various observations on the morphology, physiology and biochemistry of leptocephalous larvae of different groups of marine
teleost fishes have been brought together in order to arrive at a model which attempts to explain the ‘leptocephalous strategy’
of larval development. The observation that basic similarities are found in the developmental pattern of all groups of fishes
with a leptocephalus (Superorder: Elopomorpha) forms the basis for proposing a common strategy within the superorder. Circumstantial
evidence suggesting that premetamorphic (Phase I) larvae obtain a significant fraction of their nutritional needs by absorbing
dissolved organic matter across surface epithelia has been reviewed. It is suggested that this might occur via a Na+-mediated transport system similar to that seen in various marine invertebrates. Breakdown of the gelatinous matrix formed
during Phase I is assumed to provide the nutrients required for the metamorphic larvae (Phase II). This strategy is then contrasted
with the more ‘typical’ form of larval development in marine teleosts and shown to differ in several basic respects. |
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Keywords: | Elopomorpha Larval development Nutrition Teleost evolution |
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