Multifunctional Roles of Fatty Acids in Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) Research: From Population Ecology to Physiological Adaptation

Since 2005, continuous research has been dedicated to unraveling the relationship between the sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) life cycle and fatty acid profiles. This mini review synthesizes the key findings of these investigations, transitioning from a chronological overview to a thematic approach focused on the utility of fatty acids as multifaceted biomarkers. Specifically, this work examines their application in identifying population and stock structures, decoding trophic ecology across ontogenetic stages, and tracking feeding strategies during the marine phase. Finally, the role of fatty acids in modulating cellular and physiological responses to environmental stressors—such as elevated salinity and pollutants—is addressed, highlighting the challenges lamprey juveniles overcome during their downstream trophic migration to the ocean.