Bilateral asymmetry in Great Lakes pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha [abstract]

Abstract

This study is being conducted to determine whether and to what degree developmental instability occurs in the pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) populations inhabiting the Great Lakes of North America. Developmental instability may be of a genetic origin, or it may result from physical, chemical, or even biological stressors in the environment. In this study, fluctuating asymmetry was measured in pectoral fin ray counts from adult male and female salmon from two separate years and from lab-reared progeny of the latter. The results of size- and sex-related differences in levels of asymmetry were reported within years, between years, and between parents and progeny. Also, suggestions are provided for why these differences occur.