Conducta socioespacial frente a un ambiente nuevo de Pseudotropheus tropheops Regan, 1921 (Teleostei, Cichlidae)

Abstract

Sociospatial behaviour of Pseudotropheus tropheopsReagan, 1921 ina new environment (Teleostei, Cichlidae).- The relationships between agonistic behaviour and spatial variables within a group of six captive inmature Pseudotropheus tropheops is studied. Data on frequency of Eghts and spatial positions are anaiysed during three periods of time within the 24 hours foiiowing modification of the medium. Three phases of social behaviour are established: 1) exploration, performed by the group in schooling; 2) development of Dominance Hierarchy, characterised by a stable and medium sized activity area; 3) dispersa], which includes a regular, territory-like, pattern of spatial distribution. Severai details of these phases are discussed.