'Emotional Fever' Among Fish Species: Study Reveals New Findings

Apparently one type of fish experiences an 'emotional fever,' according to a recent study. The researchers conducted their study by "stressing zebra fish" where they saw interesting reactions with the distressed fish. The researchers believe that this species of fish should be listed as a sentient being.

Studies have shown that mammals and birds have a 1 to 2 degrees Celsius increase in body temperature under stressing conditions. This often categorizes them as sentient beings, as they can endure physical and emotional pain. Until now, no study has found if stress causes temperature increase among fish.

The researchers placed 72 zebra fish in water that was 1 C° colder than their normal water, while the other controlled group had no changes. The fishes were then placed into a tank with varying heating levels, which was freely accessible. The researchers observed that the 'stressed fishes' swam to the warmer water, where they spent a great deal of time compared to the control fish. The fishes' body temperatures then increased from 2 to 4 C°.

This indicated that the fishes' had increased body temperatures under stressing conditions. This was referred to as an 'emotional fever', which qualifies them as sentient beings, according to the researchers.

The findings of this study were published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

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