Enigmatic Headstands in European Freshwater Fish Species.

ABSTRACT: This study discloses a remarkable and rarely documented behavior among two cyprinid species-the common bleak (Alburnus alburnus) and the common roach (Rutilus rutilus)-and one percid species, the European perch (Perca fluviatilis). The primary aim was to reevaluate this distinct behavior, termed "headstand", and explore its potential implications for fish behavior and ecology. We utilized video recording to observe and analyze this behavior. Fish were monitored in an enclosure with near-natural conditions. Instances of headstanding behavior-where fish assume a head-down posture at angles between 45° and 90°-were documented. The video analysis revealed the occurrence of headstanding behavior in all three species, lasting from a few seconds to over a minute. This behavio

SUBMITTER: Tuser M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11829109 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature