Modeling the skin pattern of fishes

Author(s)

Barrio‚ R.A. ; Baker‚ R.E. ; Vaughan Jr‚ B. ; Tribuzy‚ K. ; de Carvalho‚ M.R. ; Bassanezi‚ R. ; Maini‚ P.K.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Physical Review E; v. 79, n. 3, p. 031908, 2009.

Abstract

Complicated patterns showing various spatial scales have been obtained in the past by coupling Turing systems in such a way that the scales of the independent systems resonate. This produces superimposed patterns with different length scales. Here we propose a model consisting of two identical reaction-diffusion systems coupled together in such a way that one of them produces a simple Turing pattern of spots or stripes, and the other traveling wave fronts that eventually become stationary. The basic idea is to assume that one of the systems becomes fixed after some time and serves as a source of morphogens for the other system. This mechanism produces patterns very similar to the pigmentation patterns observed in different species of stingrays and other fishes. The biological mechanisms that support the realization of this model are discussed. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 02/06459-0 - Phylogenetic systematics, evolution and classification of living and fossil rays, with an analysis of historical biology of freshwater stingrays of the family Potamotrygonidae (Chondrichthyes: Batoidea)
• Grantee: Marcelo Rodrigues de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants