The Cellular Expression and Genetics of Purple Body (Pb) in the Ocular Media of the Guppy Poecilia reticulata

Abstract

AbstractOur study revealed the presence of all major classes of chromatophores (melanophores, xanthophores, erythrophores, violet-blue iridophores, xantho-erythrophores) and crystalline platelets in various combinations in the iris and ocular media (cornea, aqueous humor, vitreous humor, outer lens membrane) of Poecilia reticulata. This novel ocular media study of P. reticulata takes into account the distinct interactions of Purple Body (Pb) based on results of previous Bias and Squire Purple Body (Pb) publications. Taken in conjunction with other researcher’s published results (regarding UV reflected color and pattern, vision, mate choice, individual preferences, and opsin capabilities) this indicates that these ocular chromatophore populations together create a complex ocular filter mechanism. This mechanism in turn provides spectral capabilities into the UV and Near-UV wavelengths in both Pb and non-Pb individuals. The chromatophores in the cornea, aqueous humor, covering membranes of the lens, and the vitreous humor comprise an ocular filter system that could reduce UV damage to the internal structures of the eye. The guppy’s ability to use UVA as a visual component provides a “private signally system” that cannot be detected by some predators. While non-Pb guppies should derive benefit in the near-UV from violet-blue iridophore units, greater benefit will be derived by Pb individuals with more violet iridophores functioning in the lower UV and near-UV wavelengths. To our knowledge little has been published for P. reticulata concerning pigmentation within the guppy eye. Macroscopic and microscopic imagery is presented.