Preliminary investigation of changes in fish morphology as related to turbidity
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
4-2025
Abstract
Human activities increase turbidity in freshwater environments. Shoaling, a behavior with numerous benefits for fishes, is known to be hindered by turbidity. We investigated whether turbidity also induces morphological changes in fishes, specifically alterations in eye size or body shape. Using ImageJ software, we analyzed images of 218 Red Shiners (RS, Cyprinella lutrensis) and 135 Western Mosquitofish (WM, Gambusia affinis) provided by the San Antonio River Authority. Regression or correlation analyses revealed that relative eye and pupil size in RS significantly increased with turbidity (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), a trend not observed in WM. Similarly, RS exhibited a significantly deeper relative body depth with increased turbidity, while WM did not. These findings suggest that turbidity's impact extends beyond behavioral changes, influencing fish morphology. This likely reflects the loss of shoaling benefits and the necessity for fish to adapt to this environmental stressor.
Recommended Citation
Rodriguez, Andrea, "Preliminary investigation of changes in fish morphology as related to turbidity" (2025). Student Research Symposium 2025. 51.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/srs_2025/51
Comments
Poster Session 2
5:30-7:00 p.m.
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