Novel mechanisms of chemosensory adaptation to the cave environment
Natalie Choi, Edward S. Rice, X Maggs, Zicong Zhang, Masato Nikaido, Wesley C. Warren, Masato Yoshizawa
The paper shows cavefish have improved olfaction through physiological adaptations, not expanded chemosensory receptors, and demonstrates reduced flow rate in olfactory pits enhances foraging.
bioRxiv · Apr 4, 2026 · PreprintEvolutionary Biology