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Learning and memory tests in zebrafish
The learning capabilities of zebrafish have been well-characterized in research. Many paradigms used in rodent studies, such as those using mazes, have been successfully adapted to zebrafish studies. They have been proven useful to study the effects of genetic disposition, chemical alterations, substances of abuse (such as alcohol), and promising substances in the treatment of specific disorders.
However, keeping track of zebrafish behavior can be a challenge because of their fast and often erratic movement.
T-maze testing
The T-maze, or variations such as the Y-maze and cross-maze, is well-validated for discriminative learning tasks. The fish learn to select a certain zone to swim to based on natural preference for the environment (color, water depth, enrichment) or certain stimuli. Taught to expect a certain reward, fish will normally learn this quite easily.
Free white paper
Zebrafish and learning paradigms
Zebrafish have become an important animal model for studying neurodegenerative diseases. In validation of these models, both pathologically and behaviorally, many standardized paradigms have been translated from rodent models to zebrafish.
Download the white paper and learn more about zebrafish and learning paradigms.
Advantages of using software
Latency to reach the ‘goal areas’ is an obvious parameter in learning studies, and can even be measured manually quite easily. The same is true for the amount of entries to or transitions between zones, and the relative amount of time spent in a certain zone. However, additional valuable parameters such as swimming velocity and path shape may not be measured as easily. All provide valuable information about the learning and memory capabilities of the fish and how these capabilities are influenced by genetics or drugs. Video tracking makes this an easy job, giving consistent and objective measurements for reliable data.
EthoVision XT
EthoVision XT is a video tracking software platform to build your experiments on, and serves as a versatile and scalable solution at the core of your lab. It is easy to use, and over 2000 sites use and publish with it.
Video tracking data contains abundant information, and a large set of data selection options and parameters is at your disposal to get you the measurements you need EthoVision XT also offers a platform for fully integrated setups.
Relevant blogs
5 must-read articles on zebrafish behavioral research
I have been reading a lot about zebrafish research lately and I thought it would be nice to share some of my favorite articles with you.
Three ways to test hallucinogens on zebrafish
Hallucinogenic drugs (psychedelics) have a growing significance in biopsychiatric research. Zebrafish are a popular animal model and seem highly sensitive to various drugs of abuse.