Interaction of host gene-gut microbiota in male grading of .

UNLABELLED

The giant freshwater prawn (GFP; ), a crustacean of high nutritional and economic value, is crucial for aquaculture. During the same growth cycle, male GFPs develop into three distinct forms: small males, orange claw males, and blue claw males. These morphotypes display varying social behaviors, which severely constrain their industrial development. To address this, this study collected male GFP samples at critical developmental time points (100, 110, and 120 days post-hatching) for phenotypic trait measurement and analysis to obtain external morphological data. Through gut microbiota diversity analysis, we identified key gut bacteria ( and ) influencing male morphotype differentiation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed host Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome pathways and key genes (, , , , and ) associated with morphotype differentiation. The interactions among phenotypic traits, gut microbiota, and key genes were systematically studied through association analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was employed to construct co-expression modules, from which critical gene modules influencing phenotypic variation were identified. Through association network analysis, we established an "-CD-TRINITY_DN93139_c0_g2 (calpain clp-1)" interaction model. Our findings provide novel insights into the genetic enhancement of GFPs and offer guidelines for future research regarding gut symbiotic bacteria and breeding initiatives.

IMPORTANCE

Male (giant freshwater prawn [GFP]) in the same growth cycle will develop into small males, orange claw males, and blue claw males. This individual heterogeneity in growth significantly impacts the benefits of aquaculture. However, the factors influencing the differentiation of male GFP morphotype remain unclear. This study analyzed the phenotypic data of various GFP levels, the structure of the intestinal microbiota, and the differential genes within the gonadal transcriptome at critical time points of male GFP-level type differentiation. The aim was to explore the potential role of intestinal microbiota and differential genes in this phenomenon. This study offers new insights into the research on the phenomenon of male GFP-level type differentiation.