QTL mapping of feeding, sleep, and adiposity traits in F2 surface-cave Astyanax mexicanus crosses

While sleep is functionally related to feeding and metabolic state, the relationship between these processes is poorly understood. We will assess the correlation of feeding, sleep, and adiposity traits in the F2 offspring of surface-cave Astyanax mexicanus crosses to determine whether shared or distinct genetic pathways govern their repeated evolution. Next, we will use high-resolution quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping to more finely evaluate whether a common genetic basis underlies feeding, sleep, and adiposity.