Meeting Abstract

P2-91   -   Tissue-specific transcriptomic analysis of genetic variation underlying naturally and artificially selected phenotypes in Betta splendens Carlson, BM*; Currie, A; Gross, JB; Northern Kentucky University; Northern Kentucky University; University of Cincinnati carlsonb2@nku.edu

Next-generation sequencing makes genetic investigation outside of traditional model organisms more feasible with each passing year. As new data becomes less expensive and more accessible, researchers are actively working to expand the repertoire of study systems in which to investigate, among other questions, how genetic variation leads to changes in morphology, physiology, and behavior at the organismal level. While laboratory techniques can generate mutant lines that simulate traits or syndromes of interest, examples arising from standing variation may tell us more about the specific routes that evolution has taken to arrive at phenotypes of interest. Betta splendens, also known as the Siamese fighting fish, has been shaped by both natural and artificial selection to display a stunning array of pigmentation patterns and fin morphologies, in addition to the high levels of aggression that have earned this species its common name. Further, these fish are tractable in a lab setting, have a dedicated hobbyist community actively engaged in citizen science, and show excellent potential for use in scientific outreach to a wide variety of audiences, making them an extremely attractive study system. Here, we present the preliminary results of a transcriptomic analysis comparing male Betta splendens representing three distinct color morphs and two tail morphs. By focusing on specific tissues, rather than the whole organism homogenizations used in other studies, we aim to increase the likelihood that variation relevant to behavior, pigmentation, and tail morphology will be identified and further illuminate the genetic pathways upon which selection has acted in this species.