transcriptome and translatome analysis of Amphiprion frenatus

Skin pigmentation in teleosts is a complex process governed by molecular and cellular mechanisms during development. In this study, we investigated the pigmentation process in the tomato clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus) using an integrated approach combining histological analysis, transcriptomics (RNA-Seq), and translatomics (Ribo-Seq). Histological examination revealed the stepwise differentiation of melanophores, xanthophores, and iridophores during post-embryonic development. Transcriptomic profiling between 0 and 25 days post-hatching (dph) identified 4,245 differentially expressed genes associated with metabolism, pigment biosynthesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling. The integration of transcriptomic and translatomic data revealed extensive post-transcriptional regulation, with many genes displaying discordant changes in mRNA and protein levels.