Conflict and co-operation in White Cloud Mountain minnow schools

Schooling fish do not always behave co-operatively, and conflict is particularly evident when individuals compete for limited resources. In White Cloud Mountain minnows, Tanichrhys albonubes , aggression is associated with the defence of potential spawning sites. Agonistic encounters between males are more prevalent when available habitat is reduced and when the number of spawning sites (patches of weed) is restricted. Conversely, competition diminishes when the fish are in a potentially threatening situation, e.g. when they are exploring a new environment.