Stage-by-stage exploration of normal embryonic development in the Arabian killifish, Aphanius dispar.

Background: Arabian killifish, Aphanius dispar, lives in marine coastal areas of the Middle East, as well as in streams that experience a wide range of salinities and temperatures. It has been used as a mosquito control agent and for studying the toxicities of environmental pollutants. A. dispar's eggshell (chorion) and embryos are highly transparent and are suitable for high resolution microscopic observations, offering excellent visibility of live tissues.

Results: In this study, the staging of normal embryonic development of A. dispar was described and investigated at different temperatures. Embryonic development was then examined under different thermal environments from 26 to 34°C. Our data suggest that temperature has a significant effect on embryonic development, with accelerated development at higher temperatures.

Conclusion: A. dispar exhibits broad thermal tolerance and extended independent feeding capabilities, making it a promising model organism for toxicology and pathogenesis studies conducted over an extended period of time (12 days post-fertilization).