Effects of predator odour on antipredator responses of Nile tilapia

Abstract Several fish species exhibit antipredator responses when exposed to chemicals which indicate risk of predation. One such substance is the scent of a predator (a kairomone) that may induce defensive responses in a potential prey. In the present study, we show that chemical cues (odour) from...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Physiology & behavior 2016-10, Vol.165, p.22-27
Main Authors: Miyai, Caio Akira, Sanches, Fábio Henrique Carretero, Pinho-Neto, Cândido Ferreira, Barreto, Rodrigo Egydio
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Blood Glucose - metabolism
Carps
Catfishes
Chemical cues
Cichlids - physiology
Cortisol
Glucose
Hydrocortisone - blood
Kairomone
Locomotion
Motor Activity
Odorants
Oxygen Consumption
Predatory Behavior
Psychiatry
Stress, Psychological - physiopathology
Ventilation rate
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Summary:Abstract Several fish species exhibit antipredator responses when exposed to chemicals which indicate risk of predation. One such substance is the scent of a predator (a kairomone) that may induce defensive responses in a potential prey. In the present study, we show that chemical cues (odour) from predator fish induce antipredator and stress responses in Nile tilapia. When exposed to predator odour, Nile tilapia decreased activity and increased ventilation rate (VR), but no increase in plasma levels of cortisol and glucose was found. Although the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal axis (HPI axis) was not activated, an increase in ventilation is a fast response which can provide the fish enough oxygen for a ‘fight or flight’ event when facing a predator. Thus, this respiratory response suggests an anticipated adjustment in order to prepare the body for a defensive response, such as escaping, irrespective of HPI axis activation.
ISSN:0031-9384
1873-507X
DOI:10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.06.033