Whole-genome sequencing has provided definitive proof that the fish Parapriacanthus ransonneti lacks the luciferase gene essential for bioluminescence, relying instead on proteins acquired from its prey. This marks the first genomic evidence of kleptoproteinism, where an organism uses functional elements obtained externally rather than from its own genome.
Biological functions generally follow the central dogma of molecular biology, depending on genes encoded within an organism's genome. Kleptobiology encompasses cases where organisms acquire and employ components from other species. The research team had previously observed that P. ransonneti consumes bioluminescent ostracods, known as sea fireflies, and utilizes their luciferase enzyme to produce light.
A complete genomic analysis was necessary to determine whether the fish possessed the luciferase gene or had obtained it via horizontal gene transfer from its prey. The team generated a high-quality draft genome of P. ransonneti using advanced sequencing technologies. Their comprehensive examination revealed no ostracod-derived luciferase genes and no evidence of horizontally transferred genes throughout the fish's genome.
"These results provide compelling and conclusive evidence that this fish does not possess the genetic blueprint for bioluminescence," said Manabu Bessho-Uehara, first author of the study published in Scientific Reports. "Instead, it relies entirely on proteins obtained from its prey, representing a truly unique form of biological adaptation."
This work establishes the first genomic confirmation of kleptoproteinism. The findings hold evolutionary importance and spark investigation into how proteins survive ingestion, resist digestion, and maintain functionality within the predator. Such knowledge could aid development of oral drug delivery systems for therapeutic proteins.
Publication details: Bessho-Uehara, M., Yamaguchi, K., Koeda, K. et al. Absence of the luciferase gene in the genome of the kleptoprotein bioluminescent fish Parapriacanthus ransonneti. Sci Rep 16, 9211 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-43942-6
Biological functions generally follow the central dogma of molecular biology, depending on genes encoded within an organism's genome. Kleptobiology encompasses cases where organisms acquire and employ components from other species. The research team had previously observed that P. ransonneti consumes bioluminescent ostracods, known as sea fireflies, and utilizes their luciferase enzyme to produce light.
A complete genomic analysis was necessary to determine whether the fish possessed the luciferase gene or had obtained it via horizontal gene transfer from its prey. The team generated a high-quality draft genome of P. ransonneti using advanced sequencing technologies. Their comprehensive examination revealed no ostracod-derived luciferase genes and no evidence of horizontally transferred genes throughout the fish's genome.
"These results provide compelling and conclusive evidence that this fish does not possess the genetic blueprint for bioluminescence," said Manabu Bessho-Uehara, first author of the study published in Scientific Reports. "Instead, it relies entirely on proteins obtained from its prey, representing a truly unique form of biological adaptation."
This work establishes the first genomic confirmation of kleptoproteinism. The findings hold evolutionary importance and spark investigation into how proteins survive ingestion, resist digestion, and maintain functionality within the predator. Such knowledge could aid development of oral drug delivery systems for therapeutic proteins.
Publication details: Bessho-Uehara, M., Yamaguchi, K., Koeda, K. et al. Absence of the luciferase gene in the genome of the kleptoprotein bioluminescent fish Parapriacanthus ransonneti. Sci Rep 16, 9211 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-43942-6