Why Do Fish Yawn?

[CStrickland]

My wrasse seems to do it a lot. I read it's cause there's not enough oxygen, but I also read they just do it for no reason. My wrasse does it more when he first wakes up (like twice in 5 minutes ish) maybe to blow out his gills from being in the sand? It's cute like he's sleepy, but I wanted to makes sure it's not an issue

 

[Sounds Fishy]

It has more than one function,and I am sure an expert will answer what you want.In my opinion it is a neurological function,that flexes the mouth and gill organs.For the exact reason ,not sure.Perhaps it is to keep these organs stretched and utilized to their fullest.I wonder if it is for gas exchange,or a form of belching.

 

[whosurcaddie]

All my wrasses do this. Ive never gave it a second thought.

 

[hogfanreefer]

Agree with the above. It's also an act of aggression/warning, especially in wrasses and basslets.

 

[Shawn O]

I watched this at petco the other day while picking up some salt. A yellow head jawfish did this when a lined wrasse swam just overhead of the jawfish's den. Kind of funny behavior to watch.

 

[ajcanale]

Lionfish yawn a lot

 

[Lucky Lefty]

I noticed my mandarins sometimes push their lips far out.. almost like they are puckering their lips, or trying to make a... fish face?
I just always figured they were strecthing.

 

[Xxero]

Boring conversation?

At dinner time, try engaging in a broad array of current event topics, and avoid fixating on one subject for too long. Try to find out what the fish interests are and research those topics if necessary. :lol: