A recent study led by Professor Walter Salzburger from the University of Basel sheds light on the role of exploratory behaviour, or curiosity, in promoting biodiversity among cichlid fish in Lake Tanganyika.

1. Genetic Study Reveals Curiosity as a
Driver of Biodiversity in Lake
Tanganyika Cichlid Fish
Source- Phys.org
Exploring the Role of Curiosity in Biodiversity
A recent study led by Professor Walter Salzburger from the University of Basel sheds light on the
role of exploratory behaviour, or curiosity, in promoting biodiversity among cichlid fish in Lake
Tanganyika. This behaviour, fundamental to animal personality traits, influences survival
probabilities and habitat selection. While curious individuals may explore diverse ecological
niches, they also face increased risks of predation.
Behavioural Observations and Genetic Analysis
Dr Carolin Sommer-Trembo, the first author of the study, spent nine months observing the
exploratory behaviour of 57 Cichlid Fish species along the Southern shore of Lake Tanganyika in
Zambia. Using video recordings from experimental ponds, she analysed how the fish explored
new environments. Sommer-Trembo found significant variations in exploratory behaviour among
cichlid species, correlating with habitat preferences and body shapes.
To investigate the genetic basis of these behavioural differences, the research team collaborated
with Dr. Milan Malinsky from the University of Bern. They developed a novel method for
genome analysis, revealing a genetic variant strongly associated with exploratory behaviour.

2. Cichlid Fish species with a specific genetic marker displayed higher curiosity levels compared to
those without it.
Implications for Understanding Human Behavior
The identified genetic variant is located near the cacng5b gene, which exhibits activity in the
brain. Similar variants in humans have been linked to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia
and bipolar disorder, suggesting potential correlations with personality traits. Sommer-Trembo
emphasises the study’s broader implications for understanding biodiversity mechanisms and
potentially uncovering insights into human personality foundations.
Overall, the study underscores the significance of curiosity-driven behaviour in shaping
biodiversity among Lake Tanganyika Cichlid Fish. By combining behavioural observations with
genetic analysis, researchers gain valuable insights into the evolutionary processes driving
species diversification. Furthermore, the findings open avenues for exploring parallels between
animal and human behaviour, offering new perspectives on the origins of personality traits.
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