Scientists reveal contrasts in fish of same species

A recent study has revealed that the parasitic communities of fish can differ greatly within the same species depending on its location.

Although every body of water on earth contains a unique variety of species and organisms, it has previously been unknown how largely this can affect fish of the same species living within the same region.

A recent study, published in the Journal of Parasitology, has revealed that fish of the same species, living in lakes just 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometres) apart, have different parasitic communities.

One of the lakes has been minimally affected by human factors, whereas, five species of non-indigenous fish have been added to the other.

The two species studied, which are both native to the lakes they inhabit, showed a a difference in parasites due to contrasts in their environment.

Furthermore, the research showed that average lengths and weights between fish of the same species were also "significantly different" as a result of environmental factors.

Scientists say further investigation is needed to find specific reasons that fish of the same species, living in lakes so close to one another, can be so different.