This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) provides $800,000 to Louisiana State University (LSU) to investigate the genetic basis and evolutionary mechanisms underlying the unique visual system of the four-eyed fish Anableps anableps. The project aims to understand how the fish's split corneas and regionally distinct retinal expression patterns enable simultaneous vision above and below the water's surface. Researchers will utilize cutting-edge techniques like bulk and spatial RNA sequencing, as well as epigenetic profiling, to identify candidate genes and regulatory elements responsible for this visual innovation. The broader impacts include engaging underrepresented students in the research and conducting public outreach to the native Amazon community where these fish are found. The award period runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028.
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