Behavioural comparison of hybrid populations of Xiphophorus birchmanni × Xiphophorus malinche in seminatural mesocosms: exploring population-level personality variability

Recent studies have highlighted the ecological and evolutionary relevance of animal personality and social networks. This study aims to investigate the behaviour of hybrid swordtail populations (Xiphophorus birchmanni x X. malinche) by comparing different mesocosms, with a focus on space-use and personality trait variations at the population level. The mesocosms are not culturally identical, as factors such as the number of individuals and the sex ratio differ across enclosures, potentially creating unique social environments in each micro-habitat. These varying conditions may influence the social dynamics and behavioural patterns observed within each population.