Comparative analysis of the heart histological structure, metabolic enzyme activities and transcriptome profiles of juvenile and adult yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) in the South China Sea.

The yellowfin tuna is a large marine carnivorous fish with high commercial value. It is known for its unique physiological characteristics and holds significant potential for aquaculture. However, research on this species' developmental biology and physiology remains limited, particularly regarding the structural characteristics and functional changes in the developing heart.

Comparative analysis of spleen structure, biochemical parameters, and transcriptome of adult and juvenile yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) in the South China Sea.

As one of the top predators in the ocean, yellowfin tuna possesses physiological characteristics that are highly adapted to its high-speed swimming habits, such as high cardiac output and efficient oxygen uptake and transportation systems, which enable it to swim rapidly various diverse layers of the water for feeding activities. These physiological characteristics are intricately associated with the efficient hematopoietic function of its spleen, which plays a crucial role in maintaining its long-distance migration and sustained physical activity in particular. However, there are fewer studies on the developmental biology and function of the spleen in this species.