Thyasirid species composition (Bivalvia: Thyasiridae) and genetic connectivity of Parathyasira equalis (A. E. Verrill & K. J. Bush, 1898) in deep basins of sub-Arctic fjords.

Background: Thyasirid bivalves are often recorded as a dominant component of macrobenthic infaunal communities in depositional environments such as fjord basins. Fjord basins comprise patchy soft-bottom habitats bounded by steep walls and sills; however, little is known how this semi-isolated nature of fjords affects benthic populations. Accordingly, data on the composition and population connectivity of thyasirids can provide valuable information on the ecology of these ecosystems.

Exploring the potential of mRNA for taxonomic delineation of marine benthic eukaryotes.

Direct sequencing of mRNA isolated from environmental samples has been commonly used to analyze the functional activity of ambient communities and, occasionally used for taxonomic identification. Here we assess the viability of using mRNA for investigating the species composition of marine benthic eukaryotes. Total RNA was extracted from sediments sampled close to fish farms and mRNA was sequenced after poly-A enrichment on an Illumina MiSeq sequencer.

Controlled iris radiance in a diurnal fish looking at prey.

Active sensing using light, or active photolocation, is only known from deep sea and nocturnal fish with chemiluminescent 'search' lights. Bright irides in diurnal fish species have recently been proposed as a potential analogue. Here, we contribute to this discussion by testing whether iris radiance is actively modulated.