PATTERNS OF RNA/DNA RATIOS IN LARVAL FISH AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO SURVIVAL IN THE FIELD

P. Pepin, G.T. Evans, T.H. Shears-1999

ICES Journal of Marine Science, 56(5): 697-706

Abstract:

Patterns in the amount of RNA and DNA in six species of larval fish in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, are studied. As the amount of DNA increases, the distribution of the ratio of RNA to DNA contracts towards its highest values. This is interpreted to mean that RNA/DNA is an indication of survival probability, and that survival probability is a quantity that tends to persist through a larva's life. Comparisons among species indicate that the greatest degree of contraction (the strongest selection pressure) is associated with the highest mortality rates. There is evidence that variability in RNA/DNA is introduced around the time of yolk-sac absorption.

(Fisheries and Oceans, Science Branch, P.O. Box 5667, St John's, Newfoundland, Canada, A1C 5X1, tel: +1 709 772-2081, fax: +1 709 772-4188, e-mail: pepin@athena.nwafc.nf.ca)

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