Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Do fish get depressed?

Researchers have concluded that fish do get depressed, much as humans do. In fact, fish seem to respond to antidepressants about like humans, gaining energy & interest in their world after a few weeks.

Fish depression is usually caused by boredom with their surroundings, such as a goldfish in a bowl. The less stuff there is to explore, the greater the chances of boredom & eventual depression.

Here's the thing: Maybe part of the reason that complex habitat is good for fishing is that it keeps the fish happy & active. It's not just about cover, it's about the mood. A happy fish is perhaps more likely to strike a lure, at least, more than a depressed one.


https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/16/science/depressed-fish.html?_r=0

That's interesting. I might go get some PVC and build something tomorrow.

Perhaps sink a Tiki bar for structure? Disco ball, and some music?
You can observe this in aquariums where all of the decorations are garish color with little real objects. The fish always seem to have an attitude of "WTH" and don't really exhibit natural behavior. It is so different in a well planted and properly lit aquarium.

Mine are currently going "WTH" due to a water quality problem. I should probably change some water since the last time was around early June.