The influence of olfaction on exploratory behaviour in the paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis L.).

We studied the role of olfaction on the exploratory behaviour of the paradise fish. Intact animals showed habituation of exploratory behaviour toward a heterospecific fish after five consecutive encounters. Fish with olfactory nerves destroyed spent significantly longer time with exploration compared to the control even at the fifth encounter. We suggest that olfactory inputs have a strong influence on exploratory behaviour.