"In addition to humans, many animals show lateralization, including the bridled monocle bream we used in this study," said lead author of the paper, Mr Dominique Roche, a PhD candidate in the ANU Research School of Biology.

"There has been some evidence that lateralization is plastic, meaning it can change depending on the circumstances. For example, history has shown that some people born left-handed can become very adept at writing with their right hand if forced to do so in school. In fact, they often become more comfortable using their right hand in the long run."

The bridled monocle bream is often parasitized by a large crustacean which attaches itself to one side of the fish's head, just above the eye.