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A new study highlighted in The Independent confirms what animal
rights activists have been saying for years: Fish
are individuals with complex personalities.
Researchers tested to see whether Trinidadian guppies all
had a similar response to potential dangers. In the study, the fish were confronted
with new situations or apparent predators to cause different levels of stress. Researchers
then monitored their behavior and found that each fish had particular “coping
mechanisms. They all proved to be individuals, with some being braver than
others.
Researcher Dr. Tom Houslay of Exeter University said:
When placed into an unfamiliar environment, we found guppies have various strategies for coping with this stressful situation—many attempt to hide, others try to escape, some explore cautiously, and so on.
Just like land animals, fish are intelligent and sensitive beings.
A study published on Vox.com detailed a multitude of fish abilities, including their
abilities to “learn from each other, recognize other fish they’ve spent
time with previously, know their place within fish social hierarchies, and
remember complex spatial maps of their surroundings.” Another study published
in Nature Scientific Reports found that fish
look out for each other when searching for food.
Additionally, scientists worldwide have noted time and again
that fish experience pain. They’re even comparable
to dogs, cats, and other animals in the way they feel pleasure.
Sadly, the fishing industry treats fish as mere objects. In
2011 Mercy For Animals conducted an undercover investigation at a fish
slaughter facility that exposed fish being skinned alive. As the fish gasped
for oxygen, their skin was ripped off with pliers. They thrashed and fought to
escape the workers’ knives.
See for yourself.
You can take a stand against the blatant abuse of fish and
other animals by leaving meat, dairy, and eggs off your plate. Click here to learn more about switching to a
compassionate vegan diet. And check out these cruelty-free, sea-inspired recipes.