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Mallick S, Sundaray JK, Ghosal R. Understanding feeding competition under laboratory conditions: Rohu (Labeo rohita) versus Amazon sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys spp.). Behav Processes 2024; 218:105029. [PMID: 38642719 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2024.105029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Competitive interactions between species is widely prevalent within the animal world. In this manuscript, we attempted to understand feeding competitions between the Amazon sailfin catfish, an invasive species introduced globally, and rohu, a keystone species native to several countries within southeast Asia. We used two different size classes of each species, large-size having total length (TL, from snout tip to caudal fin) of 15-20 cm and fingerling having TL<6 cm, and feeding duration was used as a proxy to understand competition. Our results demonstrated that feeding durations of large-size rohu were either similar or significantly (P<0.05) higher in presence of catfish when compared to trials in presence of conspecifics, indicating that large-size rohu is not a weak competitor. However, feeding durations of fingerling rohu was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in presence of both large-size and fingerling catfish, when compared to trials in presence of conspecifics. Moreover, fingerling rohu also displayed freeze (alarm) behavior in presence of the catfish. Interestingly, presence of rohu had no significant (P>0.05) impact on feeding durations of catfish. Overall, the study demonstrated that invasive catfish may behaviorally outcompete fingerling rohu, thus, threatening the sustenance of a species that is native to several freshwaters around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Mallick
- Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, India
| | - Jitendra Kumar Sundaray
- Fish Genetics and Biotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Ratna Ghosal
- Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, India.
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2
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Kenyon HL, Martin PR. Color as an Interspecific Badge of Status: A Comparative Test. Am Nat 2023; 202:433-447. [PMID: 37792917 DOI: 10.1086/725916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAnimals as diverse as cephalopods, insects, fish, and mammals signal social dominance to conspecifics to avoid costly fights. Even though between-species fights may be equally costly, the extent to which dominance signals are used between species is unknown. Here, we test the hypothesis that differences in color are associated with dominance between closely related species that aggressively interact over resources, examining between-species variation in colors that are used in within-species badges of status (black, white, and carotenoid coloration) in a comparative analysis of diverse species of birds. We found that dominant species have more black, on average, than subordinate species, particularly in regions important for aggressive signaling (face, throat, and bill). Furthermore, dominant species were more likely to have more black in comparisons in which the dominant species was similar in size or smaller than the subordinate, suggesting that black may be a more important signal when other signals of dominance (size) are missing. Carotenoid colors (i.e., red, pink, orange, and yellow) were not generally associated with dominance but may signal dominance in some taxonomic groups. White may have opposing functions: white was associated with dominance in species in which black was also associated with dominance but was associated with subordinance in species in which carotenoid-based dominance signals may be used. Overall, these results provide new evidence that colors may function broadly as signals of dominance among competing species. Such signals could help to mediate aggressive interactions among species, thereby reducing some costs of co-occurrence and facilitating coexistence in nature.
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3
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Svitačová K, Slavík O, Horký P. Pigmentation potentially influences fish welfare in aquaculture. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
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4
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Franco M, Arce E. Aggressive interactions and consistency of dominance hierarchies of the native and nonnative cichlid fishes of the Balsas basin. Aggress Behav 2022; 48:103-110. [PMID: 34562274 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Dominance hierarchies are generally established based on the levels of aggressiveness that animals present. Frequently, animals fight to establish a dominance hierarchy and obtain a disputed resource. The Mexican mojarra Cichlasoma istlanum is a native species of the Balsas river basin and coexists there with four nonnative cichlids: tilapia Oreochromis sp., convict cichlid Amatitlania nigrofasciata, spotcheek cichlid Thorichthys maculipinnis, and green terror Andinoacara rivulatus. These five cichlid species compete for spaces for reproduction, feeding, and shelter and frequently engage in aggressive interactions to obtain these resources. We quantified dominance indices to evaluate the hierarchical structure of dominance among these five cichlids and the duration of aggressive behaviors of the Mexican mojarra during experimental contests between the native species and each of the four nonnative species. The Mexican mojarra was consistently dominant over the other four cichlid species, performing a larger number of aggressive behaviors and investing more time in attacking than the nonnative cichlids, which resulted in a higher hierarchical position. Our results show that the native fish, Mexican mojarra, established dominance over all four nonnative cichlid fish of the Balsas basin. Thus, the establishment of nonnative cichlid species in the Balsas basin is likely associated with factors other than behavioral dominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Franco
- Doctorado en Ciencias Naturales Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos Cuernavaca Morelos Mexico
| | - Elsah Arce
- Laboratorio de Acuicultura e Hidrobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos Cuernavaca Morelos Mexico
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de la Peña E, Pérez-González J, Martín J, Vedel G, Carranza J. The dark-ventral-patch of male red deer, a sexual signal that conveys the degree of involvement in rutting behavior. BMC ZOOL 2021; 6:18. [PMID: 37170131 PMCID: PMC10127101 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-021-00083-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In polygynous mammals, signalling may play a decisive role in mating behavior, mediating the intensity of male fights and female mate choice. During the rutting season, male red deer may show a visible dark patch in their ventral fur. Recently, this patch has been suggested to act as a flexible sexual signal, due to its relationships with other variables such as age, body size, antler development, volatile compounds, or the competitive environment. The analysis of fur pigmentation at the ventral patch suggests that this might also visually indicate the male intrinsic predisposition to take part in mating competition.
Results
To assess the possible role of this trait as a communicative signal related to mate competition, we used red deer behavioral observations during the rut in Doñana National Park (Spain) to examine the link between the degree of expression of the dark ventral patch and the rutting activity (assessed from both intra-and-inter-sexual behaviors). Consistent with our predictions, we found in a field study that males with large dark patches showed a higher frequency of rutting behaviors (mainly roaring and flehmen), more interactions with females, and attained larger harem sizes.
Conclusions
The dark ventral patch was a better predictor of male behavior than antler tines or territory holding, thus standing as a short-term indicator of male willingness to invest in mating competition.
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6
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Korzan WJ, Summers CH. Evolution of stress responses refine mechanisms of social rank. Neurobiol Stress 2021; 14:100328. [PMID: 33997153 PMCID: PMC8105687 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2021.100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Social rank functions to facilitate coping responses to socially stressful situations and conditions. The evolution of social status appears to be inseparably connected to the evolution of stress. Stress, aggression, reward, and decision-making neurocircuitries overlap and interact to produce status-linked relationships, which are common among both male and female populations. Behavioral consequences stemming from social status and rank relationships are molded by aggressive interactions, which are inherently stressful. It seems likely that the balance of regulatory elements in pro- and anti-stress neurocircuitries results in rapid but brief stress responses that are advantageous to social dominance. These systems further produce, in coordination with reward and aggression circuitries, rapid adaptive responding during opportunities that arise to acquire food, mates, perch sites, territorial space, shelter and other resources. Rapid acquisition of resources and aggressive postures produces dominant individuals, who temporarily have distinct fitness advantages. For these reasons also, change in social status can occur rapidly. Social subordination results in slower and more chronic neural and endocrine reactions, a suite of unique defensive behaviors, and an increased propensity for anxious and depressive behavior and affect. These two behavioral phenotypes are but distinct ends of a spectrum, however, they may give us insights into the troubling mechanisms underlying the myriad of stress-related disorders to which they appear to be evolutionarily linked.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cliff H Summers
- Department of Biology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069 USA.,Neuroscience Group, Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57069, USA.,Veterans Affairs Research Service, Sioux Falls VA Health Care System, Sioux Falls, SD 57105 USA
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7
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Pupil size variation as a response to stress in European catfish and its application for social stress detection in albino conspecifics. PLoS One 2021; 15:e0244017. [PMID: 33382718 PMCID: PMC7775050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormonal changes such as increased cortisol level in blood plasma in response to stress and social environmental stimuli are common among vertebrates including humans and typically accompanied by other physiological processes, such as changes in body pigmentation and/or pupil dilatation. The role of pupil size variation (PSV) as a response to stress have yet to be investigated in fish. We exposed albino and pigmented European catfish to short-term stress and measured changes in pupil size and cortisol level. Albinos showed lower pupil dilatation and higher cortisol levels than did pigmented conspecifics. A clear positive relationship between pupil dilatation and cortisol concentrations was observed for both pigmented and albino specimens, suggesting that PSV can be used as a stress indicator in fish, irrespective of albino’s inability to express social communication by coloring. During the follow-up, we investigated whether a penultimate contest between albino individuals would impact contestants’ social stress during subsequent contact. We observed PSV during the contact of unfamiliar albino catfish with different penultimate experiences (winner (W) and/or loser (L)). Then, the following treatment combinations were tested: WW, WL and LL. Twenty-four-hour contact of two unfamiliar catfish resulted in higher pupil dilatation among individuals with previous winner experience. Among treatment combinations, a WL contest displayed the highest pupil dilatation for winners. PSV reflected socially induced stress in individuals that was accompanied by the “winner” experience and dominancy in albinos. To conclude, the present study validates pupil dilatation as a non-invasive method to evaluate stress level in pigmented as well as albino fish in various contexts.
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8
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Intruder traits modulate aggressive behavior of territory owners. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12050. [PMID: 32694657 PMCID: PMC7374745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68513-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The prior residence effect consists of a higher probability of territory owners to win a fight against intruders, as observed in several territorial species across animal kingdom. However, in investigations on territorial behavior, intruder traits have been assumed as fixed. Thus, we used a territorial species as experimental model to evaluate the effect of intruder traits on aggressive behavior of territory owners. During fights staged between territory owners and intruders, intruder traits, linked with visual signals of social status (dominant-subordinate position), modulate fighting behavior of territory owners, but prior residence effect still occurred. Intruder traits must be addressed more effectively for improving the theoretical understanding of territoriality.
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9
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Maia CM, Volpato GL. What to choose when the best preference is not available: does the Nile tilapia follow a linear sequence of preferences? J Zool (1987) 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. M. Maia
- Department of Physiology Institute of Biosciences (IB) UNESP – São Paulo State University Botucatu Brazil
| | - G. L. Volpato
- Department of Physiology Institute of Biosciences (IB) UNESP – São Paulo State University Botucatu Brazil
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10
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Franco-Belussi L, De Oliveira C, Sköld HN. Regulation of eye and jaw colouration in three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2018; 92:1788-1804. [PMID: 29577284 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.13620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Fish can change their skin and eye colour for background matching and signalling. Males of Gasterosteus aculeatus develop ornamental blue eyes and a red jaw during the reproductive season, colours that are further enhanced during courtship. Here, the effects of different hormones on physiological colour changes in the eyes and jaws of male and female G. aculeatus were investigated in vitro. In an in vivo experiment, G. aculeatus were injected with a receptor blocker of a pivotal hormone (noradrenaline) that controls colour change. In males, noradrenaline had aggregating effects on melanophore and erythrophore pigments resulting in blue eyes and a pale jaw, whereas melanocyte-concentrating hormone (MCH) and melatonin resulted in a pale jaw only. When noradrenalin was combined with melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) or prolactin, the jaw became red, while the eyes remained blue. In vivo injection of yohimbine, an alpha-2 adrenoreceptor blocker, resulted in dispersion of melanophore pigment in the eyes and inhibited the blue colouration. Altogether, the data suggest that noradrenalin has a pivotal role in the short-term enhancement of the ornamental colouration of male G. aculeatus, potentially together with MSH or prolactin. This study also found a sex difference in the response to MCH, prolactin and melatonin, which may result from different appearance strategies in males, versus the more cryptic females.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Franco-Belussi
- Department of Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Sciences - Kristineberg, University of Gothenburg, Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - C De Oliveira
- Department of Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - H N Sköld
- Sven Lovén Centre for Marine Sciences - Kristineberg, University of Gothenburg, Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
- Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre, Box 461, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
- Havets Hus in Lysekil, Strandvägen 9, 453 30 Lysekil, Sweden
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11
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Scaia MF, Morandini L, Noguera CA, Ramallo MR, Somoza GM, Pandolfi M. Fighting cichlids: Dynamic of intrasexual aggression in dyadic agonistic encounters. Behav Processes 2017; 147:61-69. [PMID: 29273550 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Aggression is an extremely complex behaviour and female aggression is understudied when compared to males. Despite the fact that it has been suggested that conflict among females may be more frequently resolved peacefully, in many species females show high levels of aggression. We used Cichlasoma dimerus to describe dynamics and conflict outcome in intrasexual agonistic encounters. We performed encounters of two sex-matched animals in a neutral arena and we recorded agonistic interactions during one hour. All aggressive and submissive behaviours were described and quantified to perform the ethogram. Encounters followed three phases: pre-contest, contest and post-resolution. Latency, time of resolution and frequency of aggressive displays did not differ between sexes. Relative variations in size between female opponents better explained aggression outcome in each contest, since higher levels of aggression occurred in dyads of more similar fish. However, this was not observed in males, suggesting that probably morphological characteristics could be less relevant in male conflict resolution. Altogether these results suggest that in this ethological context, C. dimerus females are as aggressive as males and that they have similar motivation towards territorial aggression, emphasizing the need of deepening the study of aggression in females and not only in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Scaia
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada - CONICET, Ciudad Auntónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología y Comportamiento, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Leonel Morandini
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada - CONICET, Ciudad Auntónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología y Comportamiento, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristobal Alejandro Noguera
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada - CONICET, Ciudad Auntónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología y Comportamiento, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martín Roberto Ramallo
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada - CONICET, Ciudad Auntónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología y Comportamiento, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Manuel Somoza
- Laboratorio de Ictiofisiología y Acuicultura, Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús (IIB-INTECH. CONICET-UNSAM), Chascomús, Argentina
| | - Matías Pandolfi
- Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada - CONICET, Ciudad Auntónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología y Comportamiento, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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12
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Queller PS, Murphy TG. Seasonal variation in the utility of a status signaling system: Plumage ornament predicts foraging success only during periods of high competition. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185584. [PMID: 28973029 PMCID: PMC5626437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Status signals allow competitors to assess each other’s resource holding potential and reduce the occurrence of physical fights. Because status signals function to mediate competition over resources, a change in the strength of competition may affect the utility of a status signaling system. Status signals alter competitor behavior during periods of high competition, and thus determine access to resources; however, when competition is reduced, we expect these signals to become disassociated from access to resources. We investigated seasonal changes in status signaling of the male black-crested titmouse (Baeolophus atricristatus), a species that experiences substantial changes in population density and competition for food over the annual cycle. We compared the size of the prominent head-crest to foraging success at community-used feeding stations; we tested this relationship when competition was seasonally high, and when competition was seasonally low. We then experimentally decreased the number of feeders to increase competition (during the season of low-competition), and again tested whether male crest size predicted access to feeders. When competition was seasonally high, males with longer crests had greater access to feeders, but this pattern was not apparent when competition was seasonally low. When competition was experimentally increased, males with longer crests were again more successful at maintaining access to feeders. These findings provide evidence of a context-dependent status signaling system, where the status signal only mediates access to resources during periods of high competition. We discuss possible hypotheses for why the signaling system may not be functional, or detectable, during periods of low competition, including that competitors may interact less frequently and so have reduced opportunity for signaling, or that status signals are disregarded by receivers during periods of low competition because signalers are unlikely to escalate a contest into a fight. In any case, these results indicate that resource availability affects a status signaling system, and that the potential for status signaling persists in this system between seasons, even though such signaling may not be overtly present or detectable during periods of low competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip S. Queller
- Department of Biology, Trinity University, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Troy G. Murphy
- Department of Biology, Trinity University, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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13
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Noleto-Filho EM, Dos Santos Gauy AC, Pennino MG, Gonçalves-de-Freitas E. Bayesian analysis improves experimental studies about temporal patterning of aggression in fish. Behav Processes 2017; 145:18-26. [PMID: 28970036 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to describe a Bayesian Hierarchical Linear Model (HLM) approach for longitudinal designs in fish's experimental aggressive behavior studies as an alternative to classical methods In particular, we discuss the advantages of Bayesian analysis in dealing with combined variables, non-statistically significant results and required sample size using an experiment of angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) species as case study. Groups of 3 individuals were subjected to daily observations recorded for 10min during 5days. The frequencies of attacks, displays and the total attacks (attacks+displays) of each record were modeled using Monte Carlo Markov chains. In addition, a Bayesian HLM was performed for measuring the rate of increase/decrease of the aggressive behavior during the time and to assess the probability of difference among days. Results highlighted that using the combined variable of total attacks could lead to biased conclusions as displays and attacks showed an opposite pattern in the experiment. Moreover, depending of the study, this difference in pattern can happen more clearly or more subtly. Subtle changes cannot be detected when p-values are implemented. On the contrary, Bayesian methods provide a clear description of the changes even when patterns are subtle. Additionally, results showed that the number of replicates (15 or 11) invariant the study conclusions as well that using a small sample size could be more evident within the overlapping days, that includes the social rank stability. Therefore, Bayesian analysis seems to be a richer and an adequate statistical approach for fish's aggressive behavior longitudinal designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eurico Mesquita Noleto-Filho
- Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita Filho (UNESP/IBILCE), Zoology and Botany Department, R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, CEP 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Aquaculture Center of Sao Paulo State University (CAUNESP), Brazil.
| | - Ana Carolina Dos Santos Gauy
- Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita Filho (UNESP/IBILCE), Zoology and Botany Department, R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, CEP 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Aquaculture Center of Sao Paulo State University (CAUNESP), Brazil.
| | - Maria Grazia Pennino
- Fishing Ecology Management and Economics (FEME), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte - UFRN. Depto. de Ecologia, Natal, RN, Brazil; Statistical Modeling Ecology Group (SMEG), Departament d'Estadística i Investigació Operativa, Universitat de València, C/Dr. Moliner 50, Burjassot, 46100 Valencia, Spain; Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, C/Varadero 1. San Pedro del Pinatar, 30740, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Eliane Gonçalves-de-Freitas
- Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio Mesquita Filho (UNESP/IBILCE), Zoology and Botany Department, R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, CEP 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Aquaculture Center of Sao Paulo State University (CAUNESP), Brazil.
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14
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Oliveira TA, Idalencio R, Kalichak F, Dos Santos Rosa JG, Koakoski G, de Abreu MS, Giacomini ACV, Gusso D, Rosemberg DB, Barreto RE, Barcellos LJG. Stress responses to conspecific visual cues of predation risk in zebrafish. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3739. [PMID: 28890851 PMCID: PMC5588784 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical communication relating to predation risk is a trait common among fish species. Prey fish under threat of predation can signal risk to conspecific fish, which then exhibit defensive responses. Fish also assess predation risk by visual cues and change their behavior accordingly. Here, we explored whether these behavioral changes act as visual alarm signals to conspecific fish that are not initially under risk. We show that shoals of zebrafish (Danio rerio) visually exposed to a predator display antipredator behaviors. In addition, these defensive maneuvers trigger antipredator reactions in conspecifics and, concomitantly, stimulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-interrenal axis, leading to cortisol increase. Thus, we conclude that zebrafish defensive behaviors act as visual alarm cues that induce antipredator and stress response in conspecific fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago Acosta Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Renan Idalencio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Kalichak
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | - Gessi Koakoski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Murilo Sander de Abreu
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Varrone Giacomini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil.,Bioscience Institute, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, Brazil
| | - Darlan Gusso
- Department of Biologycal Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Denis Brook Rosemberg
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | - Leonardo José Gil Barcellos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, Brazil
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15
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Social organization and endocrine profiles of Australoheros facetus, an exotic freshwater fish in southern Portugal. Acta Ethol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-017-0271-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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16
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A mixed strategy of counter-singing behavior in male rock hyrax vocal competitions. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-016-2222-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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17
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Abalos J, Pérez i de Lanuza G, Carazo P, Font E. The role of male coloration in the outcome of staged contests in the European common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). BEHAVIOUR 2016. [DOI: 10.1163/1568539x-00003366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Colour signals play a key role in regulating the intensity and outcome of animal contests. Males of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) show conspicuous ventrolateral ultraviolet (UV)-blue and black patches. In addition, some populations express a striking ventral colour polymorphism (i.e., discrete orange, white and yellow morphs). In this study, we set out to evaluate the potential signalling function of these colour patches by staging pairwise combats between 60 size-matched adult lizards (20 per morph). Combats were held in a neutral arena, with each lizard facing rivals from the three morphs in a tournament with a balanced design. We then calculated a fighting ability ranking using the Bradley–Terry model, and used it to explore whether ventral colour morph, the size of UV-blue and black patches or the spectral characteristics of UV-blue patches (i.e., brightness, hue, chroma) are good predictors of fighting ability. We did not find an effect of the UV-blue patches on contest outcome, but the size of black patches emerged as a good predictor of fighting ability. We also found that winners were more aggressive when facing rivals with black patches of similar size, suggesting that black patches play a role in rival assessment and fighting rules. Finally, we found that orange males lost fights against heteromorphic males more often than yellow or white males. In light of these results, we discuss the potential signalling function of ventrolateral and ventral colour patches in mediating agonistic encounters in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Abalos
- Ethology Lab, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, calle Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia
- Centro de Investigacão em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Rua Padre Armando Quintas 7, 4485-661 Vairão, Vila do Conde, Portugal
| | - G. Pérez i de Lanuza
- Centro de Investigacão em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Rua Padre Armando Quintas 7, 4485-661 Vairão, Vila do Conde, Portugal
| | - P. Carazo
- Ethology Lab, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, calle Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia
- Edward Grey Institute, Department of Zoology, Tinbergen Building, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - E. Font
- Ethology Lab, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, calle Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia
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18
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Bloch A, Paciorek T, Richter M, Itzkowitz M. Do males measure body sizes of males and females similarly? A test in the beaugregory damselfish, Stegastes leucostictus. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/03949370.2015.1100685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A.N. Bloch
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - T. Paciorek
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - M. Richter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - M. Itzkowitz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
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19
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Backström T, Heynen M, Brännäs E, Nilsson J, Winberg S, Magnhagen C. Social stress effects on pigmentation and monoamines in Arctic charr. Behav Brain Res 2015; 291:103-107. [PMID: 25997582 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Pigmentation often signals status and in general melanin-based pigmentation is indicative of aggression and stress resilience in vertebrates. This is evident in the salmonids Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) where more melanin spotted individuals are more stress resilient. However, in the salmonid Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) it seems as if it is carotenoid-based pigmentation that signals aggression and stress resilience. In our study, social stress effects on carotenoid-based spots, and behavioural and physiological stress responses were investigated. Socially stressed individuals have more spots, and behavioural stress responses were associated with spots. Some of the results concerning physiological stress responses, such as plasma cortisol levels and monoaminergic activity, are associated with spottiness. Further, the earlier proposed lateralization of spots, with left side connected to stress responsiveness and right side to aggression, is to some extent validated although not conclusively. In conclusion, this study provides further evidence that more stressed charr have more carotenoid spots, and for the first time monoaminergic activity is shown to be connected with carotenoid pigmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Backström
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Martina Heynen
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Eva Brännäs
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jan Nilsson
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Svante Winberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carin Magnhagen
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
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20
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Backström T, Heynen M, Brännäs E, Nilsson J, Magnhagen C. Dominance and stress signalling of carotenoid pigmentation in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus): lateralization effects? Physiol Behav 2014; 138:52-7. [PMID: 25447479 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Social conflicts are usually solved by agonistic interactions where animals use cues to signal dominance or subordinance. Pigmentation change is a common cue used for signalling. In our study, the involvement of carotenoid-based pigmentation in signalling was investigated in juvenile Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus). Size-matched pairs were analysed for pigmentation both before and after being tested for competitive ability. We found that dominant individuals had fewer carotenoid-based spots on the right and left sides as well as lower plasma cortisol levels compared to subordinate individuals. Further, the number of spots on both sides was positively associated with plasma cortisol levels. These results indicate that carotenoid-based pigmentation in Arctic charr signals dominance and stress coping style. Further, it also appears as if carotenoid-based pigmentation is lateralized in Arctic charr, and that the right side signals aggression and dominance whereas the left side signals stress responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Backström
- Dept. of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Martina Heynen
- Dept. of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Eva Brännäs
- Dept. of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jan Nilsson
- Dept. of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Carin Magnhagen
- Dept. of Wildlife, Fish and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
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21
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Freitas RHA, Negrão CA, Felício AKC, Volpato GL. Eye darkening as a reliable, easy and inexpensive indicator of stress in fish. ZOOLOGY 2014; 117:179-84. [PMID: 24783997 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2013.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We expand the use of eye darkening (ED) to indicate non-social stress in the fish Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus (L.). ED is easily estimated, not requiring any sophisticated equipment, and is non-invasive, facilitating the collection of several measures of stress over time. In the current study, we showed the following: (i) high- and low-ED occur spontaneously, indicating different fish reactions to adjustments to a novel environment; (ii) fish confinement or air exposure clearly increases ED (air exposure is a stronger stressor than confinement), and the time to restore basal values indicates the severity of the impact of the stressor on the fish (this response is not affected by period of the day, e.g., morning or afternoon); and (iii) in adults, females were more responsive (slower recovery) to 2-min air exposure than to 30-min confinement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato H A Freitas
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Behavior, Research Center on Animal Welfare - RECAW, Departamento de Fisiologia, IBB, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, Botucatu 18618-970, SP, Brazil
| | - Carolina A Negrão
- Faculdades Integradas Regionais de Avaré, FIRA, Praça Prefeito Romeu Bretas 163, Avaré 18700-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Karina C Felício
- Faculdades Integradas Regionais de Avaré, FIRA, Praça Prefeito Romeu Bretas 163, Avaré 18700-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Gilson L Volpato
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Behavior, Research Center on Animal Welfare - RECAW, Departamento de Fisiologia, IBB, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, Botucatu 18618-970, SP, Brazil.
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22
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Pinho-Neto CF, Miyai CA, Sanches FHC, Giaquinto PC, Delicio HC, Barcellos LJG, Volpato GL, Barreto RE. Does sex influence intraspecific aggression and dominance in Nile tilapia juveniles? Behav Processes 2014; 105:15-8. [PMID: 24525358 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Revised: 01/29/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although sex of mature fish is known to influence aggression, this issue has so far been neglected in juveniles. Here, we tested this sex effect and showed that it does not significantly affect intraspecific aggression in juveniles of the cichlid Nile tilapia. To reach this conclusion, we measured the latency period before onset of confrontation, the frequency and types of aggressive interactions, the duration of a dispute, and the probability of becoming dominant. This was done on pairs of Nile tilapia that varied by sex: females×females, males×males, and females×males. In a double blind approach, after pairing, the sex of each individual was histologically verified and contrasted with behavioral data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cândido Ferreira Pinho-Neto
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caio Akira Miyai
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Percília Cardoso Giaquinto
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helton Carlos Delicio
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leonardo José Gil Barcellos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gilson Luiz Volpato
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Egydio Barreto
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, CAUNESP, UNESP, Rubião Jr. s/n, 18618-970 Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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23
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Maan ME, Sefc KM. Colour variation in cichlid fish: developmental mechanisms, selective pressures and evolutionary consequences. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2013; 24:516-28. [PMID: 23665150 PMCID: PMC3778878 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2013.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Cichlid fishes constitute one of the most species-rich families of vertebrates. In addition to complex social behaviour and morphological versatility, they are characterised by extensive diversity in colouration, both within and between species. Here, we review the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying colour variation in this group and the selective pressures responsible for the observed variation. We specifically address the evidence for the hypothesis that divergence in colouration is associated with the evolution of reproductive isolation between lineages. While we conclude that cichlid colours are excellent models for understanding the role of animal communication in species divergence, we also identify taxonomic and methodological biases in the current research effort. We suggest that the integration of genomic approaches with ecological and behavioural studies, across the entire cichlid family and beyond it, will contribute to the utility of the cichlid model system for understanding the evolution of biological diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine E. Maan
- University of Groningen, Behavioural Biology, PO Box 11103, 9700 CC Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kristina M. Sefc
- Institute of Zoology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010 Graz, Austria
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24
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Novales Flamarique I, Bergstrom C, Cheng CL, Reimchen TE. Role of the iridescent eye in stickleback female mate choice. J Exp Biol 2013; 216:2806-12. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.084889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Summary
Many vertebrates exhibit prominent body colours that are used in courtship and territorial communication. Some fishes also have an eye whose iris becomes iridescent during the mating season, as in the threespine stickleback. Behavioural studies in this species have focused on the redness of the throat/jaw as the primary determinant of female mate choice. Unlike the iridescent eye, however, the red throat/jaw is not present in all stickleback populations, suggesting that the colour of the eye may be equally important for female mate choice. Here, we used data on photoreceptors and environmental light to assess body conspicuousness and the colour contrast of courtship signals for stickleback populations living in a range of waters, from clear (mesotrophic) to red light shifted (dystrophic). This analysis indicated that the redness of the throat/jaw is expressed to enhance the contrast of the eye. To test the importance of eye colour as a courtship signal, we carried out mate choice experiments in which females were presented with identical videos of a courting male but for the colour of the eye and/or the throat/jaw. Females did not choose based on differences in throat/jaw redness between videos, but preferred males with the highest contrast between the eye and the throat/jaw. This result points to the blue iridescent eye as the primary courtship signal in stickleback female mate choice.
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25
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Eye as a key element of conspecific image eliciting lateralized response in fish. Anim Cogn 2012; 16:287-300. [DOI: 10.1007/s10071-012-0572-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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26
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Barreto RE. What tunes aggression in fish during fighting in environments that vary in enrichment? NEOTROPICAL ICHTHYOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1590/s1679-62252012000100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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