Abstract
In three separate experiments, maleBetta splendens were exposed, respectively, to mirror images, a variety of conspecifics, and to future opponents, prior to combat with unexposed subjects. Threat display to mirror images and to live opponents habituated significantly, but the outcomes of dominance-subordinance tests were not significantly affected by prior exposure to any of the threat-eliciting stimuli. Results are discussed in terms of stimulus and response specificity and possible chemical suppression of agonistic behavior.
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Meliska, J.A., Meliska, C.J. Effects of habituation on threat display and dominance establishment in the Siamese fighting fish,Betta splendens . Animal Learning & Behavior 4, 167–171 (1976). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03214029
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03214029