Light Pollution’s Effects on Behavior and Body Functions of Young Marine Fish During Early Life

Coral reef fish larvae exposed to artificial light at night (ALAN) for 10 days exhibited significant behavioral changes and higher mortality rates.

• Larvae actively avoided illuminated habitats during their settlement stage.
• Those living under ALAN conditions showed altered swimming behavior, which could increase their vulnerability to predators.
• Fish exposed to ALAN grew faster and heavier than those not exposed, suggesting complex growth responses.
• Despite increased growth, ALAN-exposed fish faced significantly higher mortality by the end of the study period.
• This research highlights the potential ecological impacts of ALAN on the early life stages of marine fish.

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