Influence of tank background color on aggressive and feeding behavior and physiological stress indicators in Nile tilapia

• Grant number: 25/24333-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Fishery Resources and Fishery Engineering - Aquaculture
• Principal Investigator: Rodrigo Egydio Barreto
• Grantee: Julia dos Santos Melo
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IBB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The coloration of the environment is a relevant environmental factor that can influence the behavior and physiology of fish. This study aims to evaluate the effect of tank bottom color (black or white) on aggressive behavior, feeding behavior, growth, and plasma cortisol levels in isolated Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Juvenile fish will be randomly distributed in tanks with different bottom colors. The experiment will last 30 days, with daily behavioral analyses for feeding behavior and weekly analyses for aggressive behavior. Blood samples will be collected at the end of the period to determine cortisol concentrations. Body mass and length will be measured at the beginning and at the end of the 30-day period, and predictive formulas will be used to assess growth. It is expected that environmental coloration will influence behavioral expression and modulate physiological stress indicators, providing insights for improving the management and welfare of fish reared in captivity. (AU)