Shufei Xu , Songmeng Chen , Xinna Ma , Yang Xiao , Chao Ma , Liuxiang Du , Hongwei Liu , Zhen Ma
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
This study investigates the behavioral phenotyping and adaptive strategies of black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) during social hierarchy reestablishment. Five groups of seven fish were observed in two phases: hierarchy formation and subsequent disruption-induced reestablishment, each phase involved a 5-day isolation period followed by a 5-day hierarchy formation period. The results revealed that: (1) During both hierarchy formation phases, high-ranking (α) individuals exhibited significantly greater distance to center-point, higher angular velocity, shorter latency to first movement, and reduced immobility time compared to low-ranking (γ) individuals. (2) After hierarchy disruption, all individuals showed increased acceleration, α individuals displayed significantly higher acceleration than both intermediate-ranking (β) and γ individuals, and β individuals surpassed γ individuals. (3) Principal component analysis (PCA) identified acceleration and activity as key behavioral determinants of hierarchy formation and reestablishment. Although rank order remained stable after α removal, newly promoted β individuals exhibited significantly increased acceleration, indicating behavioral plasticity. In summary, dominant individuals consistently displayed higher activity and broader spatial exploration, while subordinates initially exhibited prolonged immobility. During hierarchy reestablishment, subordinates adapted to the new social context through behavioral plasticity, adopting more proactive movement strategies. These findings elucidate the relationship between social status and locomotion in S. schlegelii, providing a framework for studying social dynamics in aquaculture and behavioral ecology.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology provides a forum for experimental ecological research on marine organisms in relation to their environment. Topic areas include studies that focus on biochemistry, physiology, behavior, genetics, and ecological theory. The main emphasis of the Journal lies in hypothesis driven experimental work, both from the laboratory and the field. Natural experiments or descriptive studies that elucidate fundamental ecological processes are welcome. Submissions should have a broad ecological framework beyond the specific study organism or geographic region.
Short communications that highlight emerging issues and exciting discoveries within five printed pages will receive a rapid turnaround. Papers describing important new analytical, computational, experimental and theoretical techniques and methods are encouraged and will be highlighted as Methodological Advances. We welcome proposals for Review Papers synthesizing a specific field within marine ecology. Finally, the journal aims to publish Special Issues at regular intervals synthesizing a particular field of marine science. All printed papers undergo a peer review process before being accepted and will receive a first decision within three months.