GSURC 2022 Presentation: The Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor 8 in Monogamous Behavior of the Convict Cichlid

Organisms like the convict cichlid (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) show monogamy, a behavior that is characterized by choosing one mate over the other. This behavior can suggest increased survival of the convict cichlid species. Monogamy is influenced early by hormones such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In the earlier stages of development, GnRH is first located in the nasal placode, and its behavioral function is to aid in reproduction and arousal. GnRH could contribute to monogamous behavior by activating pheromone release, which can lead to organisms preferring one mate over the other. This has been found to be dependent on the amount of fibroblast growth factor gene 8 (Fgf8) signaling in the olfactory epithelium. We believe that monogamy can be expressed in organisms with a lower amount of GnRH in their bodies; if a lower amount can be seen, then mating could be for pair-bond formation instead of reproduction only. In our study, we look for differences in Fgf8 signaling in the olfactory pit of the convict cichlid, a monogamous species, and the zebrafish, a non-monogamous relative, to see if this influences GnRH production in both species.