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Early ontogeny of Adinia xenica (Pisces, Cyprinodontiformes): 3. Comparison and evolutionary significance of some patterns in epigenesis of egg-scattering, hiding and bearing cyprinodontiforms

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Developmental patterns as seen in cyprinodontiforms fishes with different reproductive styles are compared, and discussed in relation to ecology and evolutionary significance. The discussion centres around Adinia xenica (its detailed ontogeny presented in two previous sequels to this paper), and, from the existing literature, Fundulus heteroclitus (closely related), Austrofundulus myersi (an annual) and Platypoecilus maculatus (a livebearer). The embryonic resting interval is present in various forms in the first three species, and differences in it and the overall patterns of development are shown to be consistent with ecological conditions. Termination of the resting interval leads immediately to hatching, a process in A. xenica, as in F. heteroclitus, apparently initiated by the appropriate summation of internal and external factors. These factors include any or all of: metabolic changes and increased oxygen requirements, response to light, reduced environmental oxygen, agitation, and increased hydrostatic pressure. They all can cause increased movement by the embryo which is credited with rupturing hatching gland cells and releasing the enzyme(s). Annual fishes experience 3 pronounced resting intervals, termed diapauses. These are discussed in the context of apparent steps and thresholds, and evolutionary ecology. A possible evolutionary sequence, from a simple fractional spawning pattern to diapause, is presented. Morphological differences in primary embryonic respiratory surfaces, as seen in the four species, are related to environmental conditions. The above illustrate ways in which the same basic structures and events are modified to cope with different habitats.

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  1. Department of Zoology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada

    Joan E. R. Cunningham & Eugene K. Balon

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  1. Joan E. R. Cunningham
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Cunningham, J.E.R., Balon, E.K. Early ontogeny of Adinia xenica (Pisces, Cyprinodontiformes): 3. Comparison and evolutionary significance of some patterns in epigenesis of egg-scattering, hiding and bearing cyprinodontiforms. Environ Biol Fish 15, 91–105 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00005425

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