Synergistic Regulation by FoxO Signaling Pathway and Muscle Remodeling Defines the Adaptive Strategy of Largemouth Bass ( <i> Micropterus salmoides </i> ) Under Saline–Alkaline Stress

Abstract

Title: Simple Summary Saline-alkaline water environments pose a major threat to freshwater aquaculture by impairing fish growth, disrupting muscle structure, and interfering with ammonia excretion. Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is a widely farmed species in China, yet its tolerance to saline-alkaline stress and underlying physiological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we evaluated the growth, muscle texture, gene expression and metabolism of largemouth bass under different saline-alkaline water conditions. Our findings reveal that high carbonate alkalinity significantly impairs survival and muscle quality, while also activating key stress response pathways such as the FoxO signaling pathway. These results provide new insights into the adaptability of largemouth bass and offer a scientific basis for its application in saline-alkaline aquaculture.