Meeting Abstract

56.4  Thursday, Jan. 5  Ribbon Fin Kinematics in the Bowfin, Amia calva JAGNANDAN, K.*; SANFORD, C. P.; Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY; Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY kevin.m.jagnandan@hofstra.edu

The use of an elongated dorsal or anal fin (a ribbon fin) in producing forward and backward propulsion is utilized by a variety of phylogenetically distinct fish species. Fishes that employ this mode of swimming move individual fin rays that generate a series of waves used to drive propulsion. To date, there is no published data on the use of the dorsal ribbon fin in the basal freshwater bowfin, Amia calva. To understand how the ribbon fin is used for propulsion in this basal fish, differences in frequency, amplitude, and wavelength of the waves produced along the fin in Amia were measured in individuals swimming at various swimming speeds (0 to 1.0 body lengths/sec). In addition, wave properties of the ribbon fin were recorded and analyzed to determine if regional specialization occurs along the fin. Wave properties were also compared between swimming with sole use of the ribbon fin, and swimming with combined use of the ribbon fin and pectoral fins influencing forward propulsion. Statistical analysis reveals that regional specialization does not occur along the ribbon fin, and that forward propulsive speed is primarily controlled by the frequency of the wave in the ribbon fin irrespective of the contribution of the pectoral fin. Funding provided by NSF IOS#0444891 and NSF DBI#0420440.