Integrated Transcriptomic and Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Developmental Mechanism of Salinity Stress Resistance in Scylla paramamosain Megalopae

This study investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptation of Scylla paramamosain megalopae (a critical larval stage of the mud crab) to acute (2-hour) and chronic (48-hour) low-salinity stress (8 per mil, compared to a control salinity of 17 per mil). Using an integrated transcriptomic and proteomic approach, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and proteins (DEPs) involved in osmoregulation, energy metabolism, structural remodeling, and antioxidative defense. Key findings reveal distinct adaptive strategies: acute stress triggers rapid responses in DNA replication, ion transport, and carbohydrate metabolism, while chronic stress induces sustained adjustments in chitin metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and protein homeostasis. This research provides the first comprehensive multi-omics insights into salinity stress resistance in S. paramamosain megalopae, enhancing understanding of crustacean osmoregulatory plasticity and supporting the development of salt-tolerant aquaculture practices.