Evolution of Small and Fast-Growing Reef Fishes: A Look into the Future
A new study published in the journal Science Advances has revealed how small, fast-growing reef fishes have evolved to survive in a changing climate. Researchers from the University of Queensland, Australia, studied the genetic and body size evolution of two species of reef fish, the Blue-streaked cleaner wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) and the Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis). They discovered that the fishes had evolved to increase their body size and growth rate in response to climate change, allowing them to survive in a rapidly changing ocean. This adaptation is important for these species, as it allows them to better cope with the increasing temperatures and changes in ocean chemistry associated with climate change. The study also highlights the importance of conserving these species and their habitats, as they may be our best hope for adapting to a changing climate.
source: Phys.org