An Experimental Study of the Building Behaviour Sequence of a Shell-Breeding Cichlid-Fish From Lake Tanganyika (Lamprologus Ocellatus)

摘要: The cichlid-fish Lamprologus ocellatus (POLL, 1986) digs empty snail shells into sandy substratum, using them for dwelling and breeding. sequence of building behaviour was analysed. It can be divided three phases: (1) in the inspection phase fish swims around shell; (2) while during digging sand is moved away from (3) subsequent oversanding phase, shell covered with sand. In analysis sequences eight individuals, each which performed five trials, interindividual differnces were found, but there no differences among repeated trials one individual. comparison procedures on small- medium-sized we noted a dependence number actions duration size shell. By offering an artificial sandpit, digging-phase may shortened or not take place at all. enlarging interior pit oversanding-phase lengthened. This led to conclusion that sequence, especially onset end individual phases, induced controlled by change external stimulus situation, influenced performance actions. Information progress perceived through shell-contact-act (cont) alternates activities. results "experiments steep-walled pit" (2,2) indicate visually orientation.