Functions of Conspicuous Coloration in Fish

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The function of conspicuous coloration displayed by breeding males of many different species has been a topic of much speculation in biology, but little solid evidence has yet been obtained. Dr. Kodric-Brown will perform experiments to investigate the function of the bright blue breeding coloration of male pupfish. Only males with breeding territories develop this coloration and reproduce. The blue breeding coloration may serve two functions: (1) facilitate acquisition and defense of a breeding territory through competition with other males, and (2) attract females to a male's territory. Dr. Kodric-Brown will introduce already-breeding males with well- developed breeding coloration and non-breeding males lacking this coloration into large tanks. She will experimentally manipulate (a) material on the bottom of the tank, to determine the importance of suitable breeding substrate for the development of breeding coloration, (b) competitive interactions among males, to determine the importance of dominance in the development of breeding coloration, and (c) female spawning behavior, to determine how male breeding coloration influences female choice of particular males. Also, the appearance of males will be experimentally altered by dyeing them with a blue dye. This study will provide insights into the types of traits important in mate recognition and male dominance, and the underlying mechanisms that are responsible for their development. Such traits act as important social signals and are virtually ubiquitous in sexually reproducing organisms. They are especially important in preventing hybridization, thus maintaining the integrity of species in our rapidly deteriorating aquatic environments.