Social buffering of oxidative stress and cortisol in an endemic cyprinid fish.

ABSTRACT: Fish exhibit complex social behaviours that can influence their stress levels and well-being. However, little is known about the link between social interactions and stress in wild fish, especially in running water environments. While many studies have explored the stress axis in fish, most have focused on specific social contexts, leaving gaps in understanding stress responses to social changes. Our study investigated collective behaviour and stress in wild Italian riffle dace (Telestes muticellus) in a controlled experimental setup simulating a natural river system. Results reveal that group-living fish have lower cortisol and oxidative stress levels in muscle tissue compared to solitary counterparts, suggesting a calming effect of conspecific presence. Additionally, we observed upregula

SUBMITTER: Schumann S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10667237 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature