Boldness and Endurace in Wild and Domesticated Sailfin Mollies
Abstract
Environment is known to influence physiological and behavioral differences, even within the same species. We compared the boldness and endurance levels of sailfin mollies (Poecilia latipinna) from domestic environments (pet stores) and wild habitats. We caught wild sailfin mollies from several freshwater sites in the South Florida area and purchased sailfin mollies from pet stores. We then used a boldness testing apparatus with a shelter and obstacles, recording each trial in a series of images. The time fish spent in latency (within the shelter while doors were open) was recorded and the recording of movement around the tank was analyzed for percent of tank used. Each fish was then run through a swim tunnel with increasing current strength to test endurance. Average latency for wild-caught fish was 525 seconds. Average latency for domestic fish was 142 seconds, (p < 0.001). From these results, it can be concluded that domestic sailfin mollies have higher boldness levels than wild sailfin mollies.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. J. Matt Hoch
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-5-2023 12:00 PM
End Date
4-6-2023 4:00 PM
Boldness and Endurace in Wild and Domesticated Sailfin Mollies
Alvin Sherman Library
Environment is known to influence physiological and behavioral differences, even within the same species. We compared the boldness and endurance levels of sailfin mollies (Poecilia latipinna) from domestic environments (pet stores) and wild habitats. We caught wild sailfin mollies from several freshwater sites in the South Florida area and purchased sailfin mollies from pet stores. We then used a boldness testing apparatus with a shelter and obstacles, recording each trial in a series of images. The time fish spent in latency (within the shelter while doors were open) was recorded and the recording of movement around the tank was analyzed for percent of tank used. Each fish was then run through a swim tunnel with increasing current strength to test endurance. Average latency for wild-caught fish was 525 seconds. Average latency for domestic fish was 142 seconds, (p < 0.001). From these results, it can be concluded that domestic sailfin mollies have higher boldness levels than wild sailfin mollies.
