Nature's grip: Unveiling the architecture and proteomics of the adhesive organ of a hill stream catfish, Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus.

ABSTRACT: Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and proteomics analysis using high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry exhibit significant adaptive structural modifications and characteristic proteins in the adhesive organ (AO) of Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus, that could assist the adhesion of the fish to the substratum. The free surface of the epithelium of AO showed characteristic mound-like tubercles separated by deep furrows. These could enhance surface grip, and assist in creation of vacuum facilitating adhesion effectively. Spine-like unculi on the surface of the epithelium appear to assist clinging of the fish to the substratum as well as to scrape food particles for feeding. Taste buds located on the summit of mound-like tubercles could serve as adaptations to enhance their sens

SUBMITTER: Sharma JK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12510517 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature