Behavioural Responses of Tilapia mossambica to Water Polluted with Fly Ash from Coal: a Laboratory Study

Fly ash contains many elements, including heavy metals, ions and oxides, depending on the constituents of the
coal being fired for power generation, where fly ash is a byproduct. These compounds affect the water quality
and in turn the fish and their behaviour. Changes in water quality parameters may also be detrimental to the
aquatic flora and hence indirectly influence the local fish population. Deviation from normal behavior is the first
sign for any animal that it is coping with some internal physiological stress. This study investigates the effect of
fly ash on the behavioural pattern of Tilapia mossambica. Observations were done on the movements of their
operculum and pectoral fins. Additionally, their feeding and swimming habits were studied as well as their
sensory responses (e.g. acoustic, rheological aggressiveness etc.). Fish in water containing fly ash were
compared to fish in water without fly ash under laboratory conditions.