Laboratory experiments on the schooling and feeding behaviour of Trichogaster fasciatus (Pisces: Perciformes) |
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Authors: | SALEEM MUSTAFA A K JAFRI |
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Institution: | Section of Ichthyology and Fisheries, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202001, U.P., India |
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Abstract: | Laboratory experiments were performed on the schooling and feeding behaviour of Trichogaster fasciatus . There was a tendency on the part of individuals of similar size to school together; the instinct being stronger in younger specimens. Unavailability of similar-sized individuals led to schooling by members of different size-groups. Column feeding was exhibited by the fish. While feeding at the bottom, the fishes formed angles varying from 30°90°. Larger individuals formed a right angle more often than younger members of the species. Optimum degree of crowding seemed necessary for active feeding as confinement of single individual, or overcrowded condition, both resulted in a decline of feeding activity. |
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Keywords: | laboratory experiments schooling feeding behaviour Trichogaster fasciatus |
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