Colossoma macropomum—A tropical fish model for biology and aquaculture. Issue 9 (12th August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Val, Adalberto L.; de Oliveira, Alzira M.
• Other Names: Pelster Bernd guestEditor.; Val Adalberto L. guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of experimental zoology. Volume 335:Issue 9/10(2021)
• Page Start: 761
• Page End: 770
• Publication Date: 2021-08-12
• Subjects: Amazon -- environmental challenges -- fish adaptation -- climate changes -- tambaqui; Zoology -- Periodicals; Zoology; Animal Population Groups -- physiology; Zoology; Electronic journals; Periodical; Periodicals; 590
• DOI: 10.1002/jez.2536
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2471-5646

Abstract

Abstract: Tambaqui, a species native to the Amazon and Orinoco Basins and their tributaries, has a history marked by biological resilience that makes this species a model for studies focused on ecology, physiology, and fish farming. In addition, it is of economic interest, due to its favorable characteristics for production in farms and its unique flavor. As the tambaqui responds in a unique way to several environmental disturbances of natural origin, the species is often used in environmental studies. Some of these studies have been revisited in this review. We revised aspects related to its natural history, habitats and geographic distribution, physiological and biochemical adaptations, and zootechnical performance. The extraordinary adaptation of the tambaqui is the fast expansion of its lower lip when exposed to low oxygen availability that is improved simultaneously with other adjustments. The resilience of this species to significant alterations in water pH is also surprising, and is incomparable with that of other species, as only when it is exposed to pH 3.5, does the tambaqui begin to present physiological‐biochemical disturbances. The analysis of the gene expression of tambaqui specimens under different experimental conditions has shed light on the adaptive mechanisms used by this unique Amazonian species. In this sense, this review sought to gather information regarding the tambaqui, and its many biological features employed to survive environmental challenges. Abstract : Seasonal changes in river level and tambaqui habitat showing access to the forest and fruit during the flood season. Highlights: 1. The Amazonian Colossoma macropomum is a biologically resilient fish species enduring extremes of oxygen, temperature, and pH. 2. The fast expansion of the lower lip used for aquatic surface respiration is a unique adaptation of C. macropomum when exposed to low oxygen. 3. Favorable characteristics for production in farms and the unique flavor make C. macropomum a species of economic interest.