Behaviour & Training Guide

Understand behaviour rather than conventional training

Fish behaviour is species-specific. Swimming patterns, feeding, hiding, territorial displays and social interactions can all provide useful information about how an aquarium is working. RSPCA guidance recommends researching the natural environment and exact requirements of each species rather than treating all fish as having the same social needs.

Social needs and compatibility

Many tropical fish are shoaling species and may be more relaxed when kept in suitable groups. Other fish can be territorial or may conflict with their own species or tankmates. Before adding fish, check adult size, water hardness, behaviour, swimming level^★ and compatibility. Crowding can increase competition for food and contribute to stress, so stocking should be planned around the aquarium's actual capacity and filtration.

Recognising possible problems

Changes such as persistent hiding, gasping, abnormal swimming, loss of appetite or unusual aggression should not simply be treated as 'bad behaviour'. They can reflect poor water quality, incompatible tankmates, unsuitable temperature or illness. Check aquarium conditions and observe patterns before making changes. Training-style interventions are generally less important than providing appropriate habitat, stable water conditions and species-appropriate social arrangements.