What Does a Fish Think When They Are Out of Water?

Fish have tiny brains compared to mammals and other vertebrates, but they do not think as we understand it. However, it is highly likely that a fish experiencing being out of water would feel intense discomfort and distress, similar to a person who has been struck in the solar plexus and can't catch a breath. Frightened and possibly panicked, the experience for a fish is both terrifying and stressful.

The Respiratory Process of Fish

Essentially, a fish cannot survive out of water because the structure of their gills, which rely on water to deliver oxygen, is ill-equipped for atmospheric oxygen. Only around 1% of fish can breathe on land, while the vast majority would suffocate and die when taken out of water. This is due to the collapse of gill arches when fish are out of water, which deprives the blood vessels of the necessary oxygen in the air.

The Mechanics of Fish Respiration

Gills are richly supplied with blood capillaries and are designed to absorb dissolved oxygen from water. The function of gills is crucial for fish to survive underwater, but it does not serve the same purpose out of water. When fish are out of water, their gills quickly become dehydrated and their blood vessels cannot access the oxygen from the air, leading to a slow and torturous death.

Understanding the Suffering of Fish

It is challenging for us humans to fully understand how a fish perceives and experiences its environment. Humans can only speculate on how a fish reacts to being out of water. However, it is reasonable to assume that the experience would be stressful, as it is for humans who feel they are underwater and unable to breathe for an extended period. Fish are particularly sensitive to stress, and thus, their out-of-water experience could be even more distressing.

Protecting Fish from Being Taken Out of Water

As responsible pet owners or caretakers, it is essential to avoid removing a fish from the water for extended periods. If moving a fish from one tank to another is necessary, it should be done as quickly and efficiently as possible. Keeping the fish in water minimizes their stress and prevents a slow and painful death.

Conclusion

Fish have a unique mechanism to capture oxygen from water, but this mechanism fails when they are out of water. Taking a fish out of its natural habitat can be life-threatening. Understanding the physiology and behavior of fish can help us treat them with the respect and care they deserve.