Meeting Abstract
There is an increasing body of evidence that epigenetic variation can contribute to phenotypic changes in a population. A deeper understanding of the roles of epigenetics in phenotypic diversity and in organism adaptation and evolution can only be achieved in individuals that are genetically identical but naturally exhibit a range of heritable phenotypes. For that purpose, the mangrove rivulus, Kryptolebias marmoratus, is a precious model. Closely associated with red mangroves from Florida to South America, it shows numerous adaptations that facilitate survival in environments with considerable variability. Its main biological particularity is its mixed-mating reproductive system wherein hermaphrodites can either fertilize their own eggs or mate with males. Depending on the geographical region, the ratio between hermaphrodites and males varies alongside selfing rates, which directly affects genetic diversity. Here, we characterized DNA methylation in adults and during embryogenesis. Differentially methylated fragments were associated with specific behavioral traits such as boldness and aggressiveness. Effects of exposure to different environmental contaminants, such as neurotoxic compounds or endocrine disrupting chemicals were assessed to investigate relationships between DNA methylation and phenotypic variation. Collectively, our research has demonstrated extensive opportunity for epigenetic change during early life, which might underlie the diversity of phenotypes exhibited both within and among genotypes.
