ConductVision Zebrafish Package
$1,990 per yearA 5-year license is $3,990 in total.
The ConductVision license for zebrafish tests.
1 / 5
Zebrafish Larvae T Maze
SKU CS-958151
$1,390.00
IncludesStandard care
Behavioral assessment apparatus for evaluating spatial learning, memory, and decision-making capabilities in larval zebrafish through controlled T-maze paradigms.
CE MarkedBAA available
Scientist guidance
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
Ask Louise about Zebrafish Larvae T Maze fit, setup, configuration, or quote prep.
Already working with us? Sign in to connect this with My Scientist.
Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- Zebrafish
- SKU family
- CS-958151
- Sizing
- Larvae T Maze: Start arm length 50 mm · Width 5 mm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- Behavioral Mazes
- Build notes
- Confirm accessories, station layout, and support needs before purchase
The Zebrafish Larvae T Maze is a specialized behavioral assessment apparatus designed for evaluating spatial learning, memory, and decision-making in larval zebrafish. This maze configuration presents subjects with a simple binary choice paradigm, making it ideal for studies investigating cognitive development, neuropharmacological effects, and genetic influences on learning behavior in early-stage zebrafish.
The T-maze design enables researchers to assess place preference, spatial memory consolidation, and learning acquisition through controlled experimental protocols. The apparatus supports both spontaneous alternation studies and reinforced learning paradigms, providing quantitative measures of cognitive function in this important vertebrate model organism.
How It Works
The T-maze operates on the principle of binary choice discrimination, where larval zebrafish navigate through a stem arm leading to two perpendicular choice arms. The apparatus exploits the natural exploratory behavior and spatial orientation capabilities of zebrafish larvae, which demonstrate measurable preferences for environmental cues such as light gradients, substrate patterns, or chemical stimuli.
Behavioral assessment relies on quantifying arm entry patterns, residence time distribution, and choice latencies. In spontaneous alternation protocols, the maze measures the inherent tendency to explore novel environments. For reinforced learning paradigms, researchers can establish spatial associations by pairing specific arms with rewarding or aversive stimuli, then measuring acquisition rates and memory retention through subsequent choice behavior.
Data collection typically involves video tracking systems that monitor larval position and movement patterns throughout the testing session. Analysis focuses on choice accuracy, learning curves, and behavioral metrics that reflect underlying neurological processes governing spatial cognition and memory formation.
Features & Benefits
Binary choice configuration
Provides simple, quantifiable behavioral readout for assessing decision-making and spatial preferences in larval subjects
Larval-scale dimensions
Optimized sizing ensures appropriate spatial scale for zebrafish larvae locomotion and behavioral expression
Transparent construction
Enables clear visualization and video tracking of subject behavior throughout the testing session
Modular design
Allows for easy cleaning, sterilization, and modification of experimental configurations between studies
Compatible with tracking systems
Integrates with standard video analysis software for automated behavioral quantification and data collection
Chemical-resistant materials
Maintains structural integrity when exposed to experimental compounds and standard laboratory disinfectants
Sizes by model
| Measurement | Larvae T Maze |
|---|---|
| Start arm length | 50 mm |
| Width | 5 mm |
| Depth | 10 mm |
| Total size | 75 mm |
- Arm corridors: 25mm, intersection 25mm2
- Pool size: E/F: 1950mm2 pools
Behavioral Construct
- Spatial Learning
- Spatial Memory
- Decision Making
- Place Preference
- Spontaneous Alternation
Automation Level
- manual
Research Domain
- Behavioral Pharmacology
- Developmental Biology
- Learning and Memory
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Species
- Zebrafish
Compatible Tracking Software
- ConductVision
Shipping weight
- 6.06 lb
Shipping box
- L: 65.0 cm
- W: 36.0 cm
- H: 27.0 cm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choice Paradigm Complexity | Binary choice T-configuration | Multiple choice mazes may offer 4-8 arm configurations | Simplified decision-making reduces confounding variables and enables clearer interpretation of spatial learning deficits. |
| Subject Age Range | Optimized for larval zebrafish | Many maze systems designed for adult fish | Enables cognitive assessment during critical developmental periods when neurological interventions have maximum impact. |
| Experimental Throughput | Individual subject testing | Some systems accommodate multiple subjects simultaneously | Individual assessment eliminates social interaction effects and provides precise behavioral quantification for each subject. |
| Setup Complexity | Simple T-configuration assembly | Complex mazes may require extensive calibration | Straightforward setup reduces technical variability and enables consistent protocol implementation across research sites. |
This larval-specific T-maze provides a focused tool for assessing binary choice behavior and spatial learning in developing zebrafish. The simplified configuration enables reliable behavioral quantification while maintaining the flexibility needed for diverse experimental paradigms.
Neuroscience
Investigating the effects of genetic mutations on spatial learning and memory formation in larval zebrafish models of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Behavioral Pharmacology
Assessing the cognitive effects of pharmaceutical compounds and neurotoxins on learning behavior and decision-making in early zebrafish development.
Learning and Memory
Quantifying spatial memory consolidation and retrieval processes through place preference and alternation behavior studies in larval subjects.
Developmental Biology
Evaluating the emergence and maturation of cognitive abilities during critical periods of zebrafish larval brain development.
Toxicology
Screening environmental contaminants and chemical exposures for potential impacts on cognitive function and behavioral development.
Practical Tips
Best Practices
Acclimate larvae to the maze environment for 2-3 minutes before beginning behavioral assessment to reduce stress-related artifacts.
Why: Initial stress responses can mask genuine cognitive behaviors and reduce experimental reliability.
Maintenance
Replace water between each experimental session and inspect maze surfaces for algae or debris accumulation.
Why: Clean conditions prevent olfactory cue contamination that could influence subsequent behavioral choices.
Data Quality
Record ambient lighting conditions and maintain consistent illumination across all testing sessions.
Why: Zebrafish larvae show strong phototactic responses that can confound spatial preference measurements.
Troubleshooting
If larvae show excessive freezing behavior, check water temperature and consider reducing environmental stimuli.
Why: Stress-induced freezing prevents normal exploratory behavior needed for meaningful cognitive assessment.
Calibration
Validate tracking system accuracy by testing with known objects before each experimental session.
Why: Tracking errors can significantly impact behavioral metrics and lead to incorrect interpretation of cognitive function.
Safety
Monitor water quality parameters regularly and maintain appropriate pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels.
Why: Suboptimal water conditions can cause physiological stress that affects behavioral performance independent of cognitive factors.
Setup Guide
Unpack and Inspect
Remove the T-maze components from packaging and verify all parts are present and undamaged. Check for any cracks or defects in the maze walls or base.
Assembly Preparation
Clean all maze surfaces with appropriate disinfectant solution and rinse thoroughly with system water. Allow components to air dry completely before assembly.
Maze Construction
Assemble the T-maze according to provided specifications, ensuring proper alignment of stem and choice arms. Verify that all joints are secure and watertight.
Water System Setup
Fill the maze with aged system water to the appropriate depth for larval zebrafish testing. Maintain consistent temperature and water quality parameters.
Environmental Calibration
Position lighting systems and any environmental cues according to experimental protocol requirements. Test and calibrate video recording equipment for optimal tracking performance.
Protocol Validation
Conduct preliminary trials with test subjects to verify maze functionality and data collection systems. Adjust parameters as needed for optimal behavioral assessment.
What’s in the Box
- T-maze base assembly (typical)
- Maze wall components (typical)
- Assembly hardware and connectors (typical)
- Setup and operation manual (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, along with technical support for setup and operational guidance.
Compliance
IACUC GuidelinesSupports behavioral studies conducted under institutional animal care and use committee protocols for zebrafish research.
ARRIVE GuidelinesEnables standardized behavioral assessment methods that facilitate reproducible reporting of animal research findings.
References
Background reading relevant to this product:
1.Charles V. Vorhees et al. (2006) “Morris water maze: procedures for assessing spatial and related forms of learning and memory” Nature Protocols doi:10.1038/nprot.2006.116
2.Rudi D'Hooge et al. (2001) “Applications of the Morris water maze in the study of learning and memory” Brain Research Reviews doi:10.1016/s0165-0173(01)00067-4
3.Herbert Schwegler et al. (1990) “Hippocampal mossy fibers and radial-maze learning in the mouse: A correlation with spatial working memory but not with non-spatial reference memory” Neuroscience doi:10.1016/0306-4522(90)90139-u
4.Norberto Cysne Coimbra et al. (2017) “Critical neuropsychobiological analysis of panic attack- and anticipatory anxiety-like behaviors in rodents confronted with snakes in polygonal arenas and complex labyrinths: a comparison to the elevated plus- and T-maze behavioral tests” Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry doi:10.1590/1516-4446-2015-1895
Q
What age range of zebrafish larvae is appropriate for T-maze testing?
A
Larval zebrafish typically show measurable behavioral responses in T-maze paradigms from 5-7 days post-fertilization onward, when swimming behavior and spatial orientation capabilities are sufficiently developed for reliable assessment.
Q
How long should individual testing sessions last?
A
Testing duration varies by protocol, but typical sessions range from 5-15 minutes to avoid fatigue effects while allowing sufficient time for behavioral expression and choice behavior measurement.
Q
What water depth is recommended for optimal larval behavior?
A
Water depth should be sufficient to allow normal swimming behavior while preventing larvae from resting on the bottom, typically 5-10mm depending on larval size and developmental stage.
Q
Can the maze be modified for different experimental conditions?
A
The modular design allows for incorporation of various environmental cues, lighting conditions, and substrate modifications to create specific experimental paradigms as needed.
Q
What tracking systems are compatible with this maze?
A
The apparatus is designed to work with standard video tracking software commonly used in zebrafish research, including EthoVision, Noldus, and custom analysis platforms.
Q
How should the maze be cleaned between subjects?
A
Thorough rinsing with system water between subjects is typically sufficient, with periodic disinfection using laboratory-appropriate cleaning solutions followed by complete water replacement.
Have a question about this product?
Track zebrafish with ConductVision
ConductVision is our video-tracking software. Record your sessions on video, and it scores standard zebrafish tests, such as those listed below.
Examples of tests it scores
The Zebrafish Package includes a custom assay made on request. To have one made for this test, ask in your quote request.
Ask a question
Have a question? Just ask.
Send it over and we'll email you a personalized answer — no call, no scheduling.
Personalized email reply
Usually within one business day
Helpful answers published here
Prefer to talk it through?
Accessories
Enhance your setup with compatible accessories
Total: $0.00
Frequently Bought Together
Total: $4,590.00
Zebrafish Larvae T Maze
$1,390.00
Added to quoteView Quote
