Date of Award
Fall 9-12-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
November 2025
Department
Biological Sciences
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Erik Duboué
Abstract
The topology of the brain is highly conserved across phyla, yet the evolutionary processes driving anatomical divergence remain poorly understood. The fish Astyanax mexicanus, which exists in both surface- and cave-dwelling morphs within the same species, provides a powerful model for studying brain evolution. While previous studies have focused on larvae, imaging adult brains has been challenging due to their size and opacity. This study overcame these limitations using tissue clearing, light sheet imaging, and computational analysis to generate a comprehensive adult brain atlas. Using nuclear staining and antibody labeling, brain-wide 3D maps were created to compare regional size, shape, and molecular identity across surface fish, cavefish, and F2 hybrids. In parallel, behaviorally induced neuronal activity was mapped using pS6 immunolabeling following a stress-based novel tank diving assay. These findings reveal how genetic and environmental factors shape adult brain structure and activity, offering new insights into the evolution of neuroanatomy and behavior.
Recommended Citation
Igwilo, Peter, "INVESTIGATING HOW EVOLUTION HAS AFFECTED THE NEUROANATOMY OF ADULT ASTYANAX MEXICANUS" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 194.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/194