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Article
Comparative Visual Function in Predatory Fishes from the Indian River Lagoon
Physiological and Biochemical Zoology
  • D. Michelle McComb, Florida Atlantic University
  • Stephen M. Kajiura, Florida Atlantic University
  • Andrij Horodysky, Hampton University
  • Tamara M. Frank, Nova Southeastern University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2013
Abstract

Visual temporal resolution and spectral sensitivity of three coastal teleost species (common snook [Centropomus undecimalis], gray snapper [Lutjanus griseus], and pinfish [Lagodon rhomboides]) were investigated by electroretinogram. Temporal resolution was quantified under photopic and scotopic conditions using response waveform dynamics and maximum critical flicker fusion frequency (CFFmax). Photopic CFFmax was significantly higher than scotopic CFFmax in all species. The snapper had the shortest photoreceptor response latency time (26.7 ms) and the highest CFFmax (47 Hz), suggesting that its eyes are adapted for a brighter photic environment. In contrast, the snook had the longest response latency time (36.8 ms) and lowest CFFmax (40 Hz), indicating that its eyes are adapted for a dimmer environment or nocturnal lifestyle. Species spectral responses ranged from 360 to 620 nm and revealed the presence of rods sensitive to dim and twilight conditions, as well as multiple cone visual pigments providing the basis for color and contrast discrimination. Collectively, our results demonstrate differences in visual function among species inhabiting the Indian River Lagoon system, representative of their unique ecology and life histories.

DOI
10.1086/670260
Comments

©2013 by The University of Chicago

Citation Information
D. Michelle McComb, Stephen M. Kajiura, Andrij Horodysky and Tamara M. Frank. "Comparative Visual Function in Predatory Fishes from the Indian River Lagoon" Physiological and Biochemical Zoology Vol. 86 Iss. 3 (2013) p. 285 - 297 ISSN: 1522-2152
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/tamara-frank/17/