Description
Specifications
Features |
Polycarbonate tank of 2L - 5L - or 10L with lid |
Pump and filtration system |
Video tracking hardware and software |
Conduct Software package |
Introduction
The Maze Engineers Zebrafish Automated Home Tank is a sophisticated experimental device that enables researchers to study zebrafish behavior within a controlled environment. By minimizing variability, this setup enhances the reliability of experimental data. The tank is equipped with numerous sensors and actuators that allow precise environmental control, facilitating research into various behavioral aspects such as learning, memory, anxiety, and social interactions.
Key components of the Maze Engineers Zebrafish Automated Home Tank include:
- Tank: Made from durable polycarbonate, available in sizes of 2L, 5L, and 10L.
- Sensors: These sensors gather detailed data on zebrafish behavior, including swimming speed, position, and activity levels.
- Actuators: Environmental parameters like water flow, temperature, and lighting can be adjusted manually or automatically.
- Filtration system: Features include a stainless steel UV unit, moving bed biofilter, 50-micron cartridge filter, 200-micron pre-filter bag, and a 350-gram capacity activated carbon filter. The system performs a 10% water change daily.
- Data collection system: Sensor data can be exported to a computer or other data collection systems for analysis.
Examples of behavioral studies possible with the Automated Zebrafish Home Tank system:
- Learning and Memory: Investigate how different learning paradigms, such as operant behaviors using food rewards and lights, affect zebrafish behavior.
- Anxiety: Examine anxiety effects by exposing zebrafish to stressful environments, observing behaviors like increased swimming speed and decreased activity levels.
- Social Behavior: Study social interactions by observing grouped zebrafish, noting behaviors like swimming in close proximity and grooming each other.
Apparatus and Equipment
- Polycarbonate tanks available in 2L, 5L, and 10L sizes with lid (Customizable dimensions available)
- 2 or 3 shelves
- Water pump, 10% water change per day
- Multi-filtration system: 50-micron cartridge filter, 350 gram capacity activated carbon filter, 200 micron pre-filter bag
- Environmental sensors for temperature (sensitivity 0.1°C), O2 saturation levels, C02 levels
- Camera and video tracking software and hardware for 24/7 monitoring
- Multiple data analyses: Measure activity, locomotion, social behaviors, discrete behaviours eg. grooming, sleep/wake, sickness
- Easy assembly/de-assembly for cleaning
Data Analysis
The Zebrafish Automated Home Cage allows for the observation of the following parameters:
Zebrafish Behaviors:
- Individual and social behaviors: including swimming patterns, activity levels, sleep/wake cycles, stress and anxiety indicators, grooming, and signs of illness.
Water Quality Metrics:
- Environmental conditions: monitoring of temperature, oxygen (O2) levels, and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations.
Applications:
- Analysis: suitable for cohort or individual subject studies over defined time periods.
- Research: supports genetic manipulation and behavioral phenotyping.
- Studies: ideal for examining pharmacological effects, social interactions, and circadian rhythms.
Literature Review
Automated Monitoring of Zebrafish Behavior Post-Invasive Procedures
Deakin et al. explored the development and application of automated techniques for monitoring zebrafish behavior after undergoing invasive procedures. This research aimed to provide a non-invasive and efficient method for assessing the impact of such procedures on zebrafish behavior, thereby enhancing both animal welfare and experimental outcomes.
The researchers utilized computer vision and image analysis algorithms to track and analyze zebrafish behavior. Experiments involved subjecting zebrafish to invasive procedures like injections or surgeries and recording their behavior with high-resolution cameras. These recordings were then analyzed using specialized software.
By examining behavioral parameters such as swimming activity, velocity, and exploratory actions, the researchers assessed the effects of invasive procedures on the zebrafish. Comparisons were made between the behavior of the experimental group (which underwent invasive procedures) and control groups (which did not), identifying any significant differences or abnormalities.
The automated monitoring system effectively detected and quantified changes in zebrafish behavior following invasive procedures. It provided a reliable and objective assessment, eliminating biases associated with manual observation.
This study underscored the potential of automated monitoring as a valuable tool in animal research, particularly for evaluating the impact of invasive procedures on zebrafish behavior. It presents a more ethical and precise approach to studying the effects of experimental interventions, allowing for a better understanding of how invasive procedures influence zebrafish well-being and behavior.
Overall, the research advances animal welfare in scientific studies and offers a practical solution for non-invasive, automated monitoring of zebrafish behavior.
Summary
The Zebrafish Automated Home Tank system allows for the study and analysis of Zebrafish in a controlled environment. The home tank can be used for long-term habituation while controlling water conditions. Video tracking allows the user to track behavior of single fish or groups.
References
Deakin, A. G., Buckley, J., S., H., Cossins, A. R., Spencer, J. W., Young, I. S., Thomson, J. S., & Sneddon, L. U. (2019). Automated monitoring of behaviour in zebrafish after invasive procedures. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-45464-w