: Its brain physically changes, boosting testosterone and dopamine levels, which sharpens focus and increases the likelihood of winning the next fight. Parallel in Humans
: Its colors deepen and its body grows stronger almost instantly. The Winner Effect: The Neuroscience of Success ...
In the waters of Lake Tanganyika, a subordinate male cichlid is typically pale, timid, and spends its time hiding to avoid conflict. However, if the dominant male in its territory disappears, this timid fish swims forward and wins a brief fight for dominance. : Its brain physically changes, boosting testosterone and
: Even artificial victories—like male mice winning fights against smaller, sedated opponents—make them significantly more likely to defeat stronger rivals later due to the neurochemical changes from their initial "wins". : Its brain physically changes
Following this win, an extraordinary biological shift occurs: