Dynamic colour change predicts movement behaviour in a diadromous fish

Abstract Dynamic changes in colour and pattern facilitate key behavioural functions in animals, particularly camouflage for predator avoidance. However, the benefits of colour change depend on the environmental and behavioural contexts. We tested how colour change interacts with movement behaviour in a freshwater fish by filming individuals in an open‐field test following a stressful stimulus. Fish with lighter patterns, brighter colour and/or those that changed to lighter colours were more likely to move. Our results highlight the interconnected roles of behaviour, colour change and environmental context in effective camouflage.