Depth preference in teleost fish: an interspecies study

In this work, I investigate the spontaneous depth preference of four teleost fish species, namely siamese fighting fish (Betta splendens), zebrafish (Danio rerio), guppies (Poecilia reticulata), and honey gouramis (Trichogaster chuna). The study aims to determine and compare the strength and type of depth preferences in each species. The hypotheses are formulated based on three ecological factors: feeding behaviour, breeding behaviour, and the type of predators. The results reveal that betta fish display a tendency to remain close to the surface of the water, while both zebrafish and honey gourami prefer the bottom areas and spend less time in the surface areas. Guppies, on the other hand, display a tendency to prefer the deep water. The study provides valuable insights into the behaviour and habitat preferences of these fish species, contributing to their conservation and further research in the field of cognition of teleost fish.