Scientists reviewed 98 studies on fish pain to come to the conclusion that the animals do feel pain in a comparable way to mammals.

Pain in fish is a contentious issue, with some claiming that the animals’ nervous systems are not complex enough to perceive pain in a meaningful way.

“When subject to a potentially painful event fishes show adverse changes in behaviour such as suspension of feeding and reduced activity, which are prevented when a pain-relieving drug is provided,” Ms Sneddon said.

She added: “When the fish’s lips are given a painful stimulus they rub the mouth against the side of the tank much like we rub our toe when we stub it.