The genetic architecture of phenotypic diversity in the Betta fish (Betta splendens)
Author
Zhang WC, Wang HR, Brandt DYC, Hu BJ, Sheng JQ, Wang MN, Luo HJ, Li YH, Guo SJ, Sheng B, Zeng Q, Peng K, Zhao DX, Jian SQ, Wu D, Wang JH, Zhao G, Ren J, Shi WT, Van Esch JHM, Klingunga S, Nielsen R, Hong YJ
Nanchang University; University of California System; University of California Berkeley; University of California System; University of California Riverside; South China Agricultural University; Eberhard Karls University of Tubingen; National Science & Technology Development Agency - Thailand; National Center Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (BIOTEC); University of Copenhagen; Nanchang University
Type
Article
Source Title
SCIENCE ADVANCES
Year
2022
Volume
8
Issue
38
Open Access
Green Submitted, Green Published
Publisher
AMER ASSOC ADVANCEMENT SCIENCE
DOI
10.1126/sciadv.abm4955
Format
PDF
Abstract
The Betta fish displays a remarkable variety of phenotypes selected during domestication. However, the genetic basis underlying these traits remains largely unexplored. Here, we report a high-quality genome assembly and resequencing of 727 individuals representing diverse morphotypes of the Betta fish. We show that current breeds have a complex domestication history with extensive introgression with wild species. Using a genome-wide association study, we identify the genetic basis of multiple traits, including coloration patterns, the Dumbo phenotype with pectoral fin outgrowth, extraordinary enlargement of body size that we map to a major locus on chromosome 8, the sex determination locus that we map to dmrt1, and the long-fin phenotype that maps to the locus containing kcnj15. We also identify a polygenic signal related to aggression, involving multiple neural system-related genes such as esyt2, apbb2, and pank2. Our study provides a resource for developing the Betta fish as a genetic model for morphological and behavioral research in vertebrates.
