Poster Session #2: South UC Ballroom
Effects of Serotonin 1b Agonists on Aggression in Betta splendens
Presentation Type
Poster
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Jenna Mace
Faculty Mentor’s Department
Psychology
Abstract / Artist's Statement
Research in mammalian species has indicated that the serotonin 1b receptor may be an important pharmacological tragic for the control of aggressive behaviors. In particular, research has shown that the serotonin 1b receptor agonists, for example zolmitriptan, produce anti-aggressive effects in rats. The present study sought to extend these findings to Betta splendens (Siamese fighting fish), a species well known for their aggressive behavior. In particular, the impact of zolimitriptan on the preference of fish to engage in aggressive behavior towards a mirror was examined. Results from this study indicate that contrary to findings from mammalian research, zolmitriptan increased the preference for aggressive encounters, indicating that the role of serotonin in the mediation of aggression may be more complex than previously thought.
Category
Life Sciences
Effects of Serotonin 1b Agonists on Aggression in Betta splendens
South UC Ballroom
Research in mammalian species has indicated that the serotonin 1b receptor may be an important pharmacological tragic for the control of aggressive behaviors. In particular, research has shown that the serotonin 1b receptor agonists, for example zolmitriptan, produce anti-aggressive effects in rats. The present study sought to extend these findings to Betta splendens (Siamese fighting fish), a species well known for their aggressive behavior. In particular, the impact of zolimitriptan on the preference of fish to engage in aggressive behavior towards a mirror was examined. Results from this study indicate that contrary to findings from mammalian research, zolmitriptan increased the preference for aggressive encounters, indicating that the role of serotonin in the mediation of aggression may be more complex than previously thought.