Q
Do fish feel pain?
A
Expert Answer
Fish have nociceptors (pain receptors) and respond to harmful stimuli, but whether they 'feel' pain subjectively is debated. They lack a neocortex like mammals, but may process pain in other brain regions. Most scientists now believe fish experience some form of pain and distress.
Key Insight
Fish have nociceptors (pain receptors) and respond to harmful stimuli, but whether they 'feel' pain subjectively is debated.
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