The evolution of the Actinopterygii (ray finned fish) has proceeded in three stages. The first group were the Chondrostei. This group was succeeded by the Holostean fishes which were superceded by the Teleosts, the most diverse group of living vertebrates. The fossil record indicates that Holostean fish were the ancestors to the Teleosts. Only two genera of Holosteans have survived (Amia and Lepisosteus). Amia is a "living fossil." This proposal will focus on the biochemical characterization of several pituitary hormones found in Amia using state of the art techniques of protein analysis and genetic engineering. These hormones will be compared with those of more "advanced" fishes. Holosteans are commercially important and the study may provide insights into ways to better manage this fishery. //
