The meaning of melanin, carotenoid, and pterin pigments in the bluefin killifish, Lucania goodei

摘要: Male bluefin killifish (Lucania goodei) exhibit extensive color variation in their fins, but the utility of this has not yet been determined. We collected males from multiple populations and spectrophotometrically determined pigment types responsible for fin coloration. that orange coloration caudal is caused by carotenoid pigmentation. In contrast, anal either pterin based (yellow red) or structural (blue) with a melanic border. As these colors have different developmental origins, potential complex signaling high. Therefore, we sought to determine whether behavior, reproductive success, health correlated Males more melanin on were dominant had higher spawning success. Male–male aggression was greater between similar-sized borders, indicating markings function as badges status males. Caudal pigmentation did correlate dominance, highly labile ornament body condition, parasite infection, suggesting role intersexual selection mates. Similar results found using digital photography. Pterin related dominance overall levels may also signal immune status. Thus, male provides messages receivers through 3 pigments (melanin, pterin, carotenoid) distinct origins.