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I have posted several times in the past about fish enrichment and how I am a huge proponent. The journal Applied Animal Behavior Science recently published a study focusing on the use of artificial aquarium plants as a source of enrichment. Full reference at the bottom of the post.
Because I have a vested interest in welfare studies surrounding fish, especially cichlids, I keep tabs on the latest research surrounding this topic. In August of 2025, I interviewed Dr. Ronald Oldfield, who specializes in fish welfare research. Several of Dr. Oldfield’s published papers were referenced in that interview.
If you follow the blog, you’ve probably read posts about cichlid enrichment, something I am big proponent of. Fish enrichment considerations are a natural extension of a larger focus, fish welfare. As a hobbyist who is sensitive to my fishes’ wellbeing, fish welfare studies involving aquarium fish are of great interest to me. Earlier this year, I was searching for some articles on fish welfare and I came across the work of today’s interviewee.