Document Type

Honors Thesis

Major

Marine Science

Advisor(s)

Heather Hamlin

Committee Members

Scarlett Tudor, Ellen Weinauer

Graduation Year

May 2025

Publication Date

8-2025

Abstract

To draw conclusions on baseline “normal” behavior for Betta splendens, it is essential to first understand mate preferences and behavioral responses. Previous studies have drawn conclusions suggesting a preference for red males; however, the majority of the research is done only using red females. The lack of inclusion of different female color morphs breeds uncertainty of whether there is a true bias for red males or if there is a pattern of assortative mating (i.e., preference for a mate of the individual’s same color morph). Tests are conducted in this study with the inclusion of both red and blue females to establish this relationship. Another aspect of this study is to examine the use of scototaxis (preference for light or dark) as a proxy for anxiety-like behavior in color morphs of Betta splendens. Blue and red bettas display differences in their physiology due to their processing of carotenoids (organic pigments), which also opens potential to influence behavior such as preference for light or dark. There was no significant difference between female color morph and time spent with red or blue male, as well as in the light or dark section. There was a significant difference between female color morph and the number of times they crossed over into dark and light sections of the tank during scototaxis testing. This study can be used in further research to understand the impact of certain environmental stressors on mate preference and anxiety-like behavior in Betta splendens.

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