Life Underwater

In the depths of the aquatic realm, there existed a bustling society of zebrafishes. In this alternate universe, they had their own version of magazines and journals that celebrated the wonders of their existence. Our story begins with a curious zebrafish named Dan.

Dan, a magnificent male zebrafish, was a sight to see. His scales shimmered with a dazzling array of colours, ranging from vibrant shades of blue and turquoise to subtle hints of silver. The intricate patterns on his scales resembled a work of art, each stripe meticulously designed by nature’s hand. His flowing fins were like silk, trailing behind him with grace as he swam through the crystal waters.

Dan was a regular reader of “Nature.” This particular publication featured an adorable image of zebrafish babies, their miniature tails showcasing a promise of future. He couldn’t help but marvel at the tiny zebrafish hatchlings on its cover.

One day, while Dan was leisurely swimming, he noticed a fellow zebrafish engrossed a rather older issue of “Development.” It was the December 1996 cover, a timeless piece of art that celebrated the grace of zebrafish fins. Dan couldn’t tear his gaze away from the cover, and as he joined his friend in admiration. They marvelled at the intricate designs and vibrant hues that adorned the fins on the cover. It was a visual symphony that celebrated the elegance and artistry of their species, leaving them with an appreciation for the beauty that surrounded them.

But it wasn’t just the aesthetics that captivated Dan’s imagination. He was an inquisitive fish, always seeking to expand his knowledge. So, he swam over to the “Zebrafish Times,” a journal dedicated to scientific discoveries of the underwaters. There, he discovered articles about groundbreaking research on the GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) and RFP (Red Fluorescent Protein) transgenic models. These articles not only detailed the science behind these marvels but also explored their implications for the zebrafish society. Dan often found himself attending “Fysposiums” where leading zebrafish scientists presented their latest findings. He was particularly fascinated by the story of Dr Finley, who had unlocked the secrets of zebrafish development. 

As he swam through the waters of assam, Dan couldn’t help but appreciate the beauty, intelligence, and resilience of his species. In the depths of their aquatic universe, zebrafish had created a culture that celebrated their own unique magnificence, proving that even in the most unexpected places, life could thrive with creativity and curiosity.

—Vanshika Mistry, Ahmedabad University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat