transcriptomics

The successful dispersal of coral reef fish populations relies on the high swimming abilities of pelagic larvae and - once settled to a reef habitat - the ability to endure hypoxia at night. This study used swimming respirometry and transcriptomics to examine the physiological mechanisms underlying the transition of cinnamon anemonefish larvae from pelagic to benthic life stages. The results suggest that changes in gene expression of oxygen-binding proteins may play a crucial role in successful larval recruitment, which has implications for understanding the connectivity of coral reef fish populations.