Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination in Fish Revisited
Author Information
Author(s): Ospina-Álvarez Natalia, Piferrer Francesc
Primary Institution: Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
Hypothesis
Is temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) as prevalent in fish as previously thought?
Conclusion
TSD in fish is less widespread than believed, with only one general sex ratio response pattern to temperature.
Supporting Evidence
- TSD is claimed in 59 fish species, but many cases are likely due to thermal effects on genotypic sex determination.
- Species with TSD show a consistent male-biased sex ratio response to increasing temperatures.
- Even small temperature increases of 1-2°C can significantly alter sex ratios in fish.
Takeaway
This study looked at how temperature affects the sex of fish and found that many fish thought to have temperature-dependent sex determination actually do not.
Methodology
Field and laboratory data were analyzed for 59 fish species to assess the presence of TSD and its effects on sex ratios.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the assignment of TSD due to reliance on laboratory conditions rather than field data.
Limitations
The study primarily relied on existing literature and laboratory data, which may not fully represent natural conditions.
Participant Demographics
The study included various fish species from different families and ecosystems.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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