Comparative Transcriptome Sequencing Analysis Revealed Key Pathways and Hub Genes Related to Gill Raker Development in Silver Carp (<i>Hypophthalmichthys molitrix</i>).

ABSTRACT: The silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) is a filter-feeding fish species, characterized by significant morphological transformations in its filter-feeding apparatus, particularly the gill rakers, which are closely associated with dietary changes throughout its development. Despite the importance of these morphological innovations, the molecular mechanisms driving these changes remain largely unexplored. To investigate this, we employed an integrative approach combining scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and comparative transcriptomics to examine the gill rakers at five critical developmental stages (6, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days post-hatching, dph). SEM analysis revealed a structural evolution from sparse, bump-like protrusions to a dense, interlocking mesh. Simultaneously, trans

SUBMITTER: Li X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12730290 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature