- Predators: Some fish hide from larger, predatory fish in order to avoid being eaten.
- Competition: Fish may hide from other fish that compete for the same food or territory.
- Predators: Some fish hide from light that may reveal them to predators.
- Stress: Fish that are stressed, for example due to poor water quality or overcrowding, may hide in order to avoid further stress.
- Sickness: Fish that are sick or injured may hide in order to rest and avoid being harassed by other fish.
- Mating: Some fish hide while mating in order to protect their eggs or young.