Transcriptomic Insights into Feeding and Digestion during ontogenetic development of Striped Murrel (Channa striata) Larvae

The larval period is a critical bottleneck in the development of striped murrel (Channastriata). To better understand the early ontogeny of this species, generating acomparative transcriptome is essential. This approach helps identify the onset offunctional mechanisms during development. Of particular interest are the molecularchanges induced by nutritional factors, which will enhance our understanding of thenutritional physiology of fish larvae and identify markers of nutritional status. Insightsinto feeding and digestive ontogeny from this study will serve as a foundation fordeveloping larval feed for C. striata. Additionally, this transcriptomic analysis aims toprovide an initial overview of key genes regulating digestive and metabolic enzymes,as well as neuropeptides that influence feed intake. The primary goal of this datageneration is to use a transcriptomic approach to explore factors affecting feedingand digestive capacity in C. striata larvae during early development. Ultimately, thisresearch will establish the first transcriptomic database for striped murrel larvae,supporting future studies on this species.